A KEY figure behind Glasgow's book festival is stepping down from his post, leaving the festival on a high as it records a ticket sale rise of 10%.

Andrew Kelly, who has programmed more than 1000 events in his eight years at the annual Aye Write! event, is leaving to concentrate on festival work elsewhere in the UK.

This year's festival, for which The Herald is the media partner, saw a rise in tickets sold for its 138 events featuring around 200 writers, authors, poets and personalities.

The hottest ticket of the festival, which ran at the city's Mitchell Library from April 12 to 20, was the tribute to the Radio 4 programme I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue.

Events at the festival over the years have included visits by Alan Bennett and Kathleen Turner, tributes to artists such as Alasdair Gray and George Wyllie, and a growing and vibrant children's programme.

This year there were debates on Scottish independence and the future of the media, and appearances by writers and personalities including Mark Millar, Darcey Bussell, David Greig, Sandi Toksvig, Denis Mina and AL Kennedy.

Mr Kelly said: "I have been here for eight festivals, and just think it is time for someone else to take the reins.

"It has been a pleasure to see it grow in the last eight years and I shall certainly be keeping an eye on it."

Karen Cunningham, the director of Aye Write!, said: "Andrew Kelly has been with Aye Write! in a variety of roles since the very first festival and much of the success and growth it has enjoyed over the past eight years is a result of his vision, his extensive knowledge of publishing and the passion he has for bringing authors together with fans.

"It's not the end of the association for Andrew and Aye Write! as we hope to welcome him back to the Mitchell Library in future years to play a part in the festival and perhaps chair some events."

Ms Cunningham said Aye Write! has been "constantly evolving" as it has grown over the years to become a popular fixture on Glasgow's cultural calendar.