THE Ilkley Arts Festival combines with Ilkley Film Society to present the Jane Austen-based Love And Friendship on Sunday, December 3, at Ilkley Playhouse at 8pm.

An adaptation of Austen's short novel Lady Susan, written in her teens but not published until more than 50 years after her death, the film stars Kate Beckinsale as a beautiful but manipulative young widow who arrives at her brother-in-law's house with the double intention of marrying off her daughter and securing her own financial future by a second marriage to a suitably rich man.

The witty result is both written and directed by Whit Stillman, whose speciality of sharply observed comedies of manners set in affluent American society makes him well-suited to the world of Jane Austen. American star Chloe Sevigny is entirely convincing in an English role, and Stephen Fry steals the scenes he appears in.

Non-members are welcome as guests (£4) but their admission cannot be guaranteed unless they reserve tickets in advance by phoning Dave Howell on 01943 430097. More information about the Film Society’s current season visit www.ilkleyfilmsociety.org.uk