THE first female director general of MI5 is set to talk about how to be a spy in St George's Hall.

Believed to be the inspiration behind James Bond's 'M', Dame Stella Rimington, will take part in the special in conversation event on Tuesday, June 18.

Stella said: “This is my first event of this kind in Liverpool and I’m delighted to be part of the programme, held in the beautiful surroundings of St George’s Hall which I hear is a spectacular venue.

“I look forward to speaking about my career, to sharing some of my experiences, and to taking questions from the audience too.”

The event will form part of Liverpool's RISE programme which celebrates inspirational women from around the world.

Former head of the most legendary security services in the world, Stella will talk about her roles in the service and how she later became a best-selling author for her Liz Carlyle crime thriller novels.

Deputy mayor of Liverpool councillor Wendy Simon, said: “We are delighted to welcome Dame Stella to Liverpool in what will be an unmissable event.

“The aim of the RISE season is to inspire, educate and empower women and this How to be event will do just that.

"Dame Stella is a fascinating character who has more than made her mark on her chosen fields - it will be a real statement that gender is no barrier to what people can achieve.

“We look forward to welcoming her to Liverpool for what is set to be one of the highlight events of the RISE programme.”

Tickets cost just £15 and are available via

www.riseliverpool.co.uk