Oxford Literary Festival 2024 has come to an end after nine days which saw world famous authors, a former footballer, politicians and many more entertain audiences.

The 27th edition of the festival saw a focus on the current issues facing the nation and the world.

In partnership with the University of Oxford, the Bodleian Libraries, and Netflix, the celebration of literature and culture was held in historic venues usually off-limits to the public.

Former Conservative leader William Hague spoke about his career in politics and the nations current political situation.

Elsewhere a lecture by writer and TV personality Dr Amir Khan on wildlife conservation and healthy farming, and a debate led by animal rights campaigner Gary Francione on the future of our food both took place.

Oxford Mail: Dr Amir Khan Dr Amir Khan (Image: Kt Bruce Photography)Netflix supported school programmes in Oxfordshire, encouraging pupils to organise their own festivals.

A talk by former professional footballer Nedum Onuoha, sponsored by Oxford United, took place as he discussed issues such as racism and retirement.

Andy Verity's argument for the innocence of 19 financial traders convicted of rate rigging, and Caroline Wheeler's account of the NHS contaminated blood scandal, also drew discussion.

Health, faith, nature, fiction, feminism, LGBTQ+ issues, economy and politics were all discussed by various expert panels.

The festival honoured author Ali Smith with the Bodley Medal, the Bodleian Libraries highest accolade, for her contribution to global literature.

The science and medicine strand of the festival, sponsored by Owen Mumford Ltd, included discussions ranging from biology to astrophysics, and a talk from science journalist Angela Saini about her new book.

The festival also highlighted the politics of food with a vegan menu designed by vegan chef and activist Marlene Watson-Tara.

There were also children's events for younger attendees and children's authors including Jaqueline Wilson.

Oxford Mail: Jacqueline Wilson Jacqueline Wilson (Image: Kt Bruce Photography)

Other programmes ranged from art and history to migration and true crime.