Writer and globetrotter Michael Palin will be doing an in conversation evening at a city centre entertainment venue to launch the Norwich Film Festival.

The Monty Python star is appearing at the OPEN Norwich on Bank Plain on Thursday, November 9.

On the same night, the historic venue will show the 1984 comedy A Private Function starring Mr Palin at 7.30pm.

After the film he will answer audience questions.

John Gordon-Saker, OPEN Norwich chief executive officer, said: 'We are absolutely thrilled. It is a major coup for the festival and OPEN Norwich.'

About half of the 500 tickets have already been sold. Doors open at 6.30pm and early bird tickets cost £12.50 and £8.

The Norwich Film Festival, in its seventh year, runs from November 17-19 at the Forum.

Visit www.opennorwich.org.uk for the in conversation tickets.