Crime writers are set to descend on Brighton this weekend.

The Dark Side Of Brighton, a new literary festival at the Mercure Hotel in King's Road, Brighton, on Saturday, February 25, will introduce emerging and established crime writers from across the country.

Names including Leigh Russell and A A Chaudhuri will be joined by local authors such as Graham Bartlett, Gregg Mosse, Andy Hill, Tony Forder and Sheila Bugler as well as the Northern Crime Syndicate heading south for one day only.

Organisers have promised the day will be packed with panels discussing psychological thrillers, long running series, “newbies” and many more.

The event is curated and hosted by Donna Morfett, a blogger, interviewer and reviewer of crime fiction.

“This is my second event in Brighton and I had to come back to put even more authors through their paces,” she said.

“I love this friendly, welcoming city and hope readers will come out in their droves to meet some of the country’s most talented authors and explore ones they’ve never read.”

Graham Bartlett, author and former city police commander, said: “With my Jo Howe series set in Brighton, it’s a joy to be invited to take part in this event.

“Having policed Brighton for nigh on 30 years, I know only too well what rich pastures it provides for novelists like myself. The line-up Donna has put together is stunning and I feel humbled to be part of this exciting day.”

Tickets are limited but still available for £12.50 on Eventbrite by searching The Dark Side Of Brighton.