World famous, best-selling author, ex-SAS soldier and general all-round boys-own hero Andy McNab will appear on the island next weekend.

The decorated war hero will talk about his life and career as a soldier, writer and charity campaigner at a black-tie dinner at Palace Hotel & Casino next month, on Friday, October 27.

Andy shot to fame after Bravo Two Zero, his vivid account of a doomed SAS mission deep inside enemy territory during the first Gulf war that went disastrously wrong, his the best selling book charts across the world.

After the eight-man SAS patrol Andy was in command of ran into trouble, they tried to escape on foot towards Syria, under constant enemy fire. Three were killed, and four captured, including Andy. .

He left the SAS two years later, after a distinguished military career that saw him serve from 1976 to 1984, and then the SAS until 1993.

Andy is thought to be one of the British Army’s most highly decorated serving soldiers, winning the Distinguished Conduct Medal and Military Medal.

Because of security fears, Andy still refuses to show his face in public.

He now has more than 40 books to his name, including 19 novels in the Nick Stone series and several series for young adults, and was recently awarded the CBE for services to literacy and charity, promoting literacy, particularly in young adults and prisoners.

Gavin Speirs, Managing Director of Prestige Artist Events, who is bringing Andy to the island, said: ’Andy’s life story is at once both harrowing and inspiring, and we are thrilled that he has agreed to visit the Island.

’Andy will be sharing his extensive life experiences, including recent expeditions to the North and South Poles, and about overcoming the greatest of odds to survive - touching upon motivation, inspiration, and endurance. It really is an evening not to be missed.’

There will be an auction during the evening, including a limited edition. cloth-bound copy of Bravo Two Zero.

Tickets for the night are £79 each, which includes a three course meal and a copy of his new book, Line Of Fire, available by contacting [email protected]

Part of the proceeds will be donated to Help for Heroes and Hospice Isle of Man.