Former politician turned TV presenter Michael Portillo will return to the stage at Gawsworth Hall near Macclesfield tonight.

With the rare ability to analyse the big issues of the day with good humour and sense, the engaging host will deliver an event to satisfy the audience at the Grade I-listed building.

As a result of Michael's range of all sorts of lark for the camera, from tacking a steam-engine's giant boiler to jumping in a bath full of mud, to engaging in a pot of Alaskan grouse dancing resplendent in full feathers, the former Westminster big-wig has some great stories, interesting insight and making many thought provoking points as well as being surprisingly ready to poke fun of himself.

Michael is uniquely placed to offer audiences his take on the latest developments both within the UK and across the world.

His abilities as a writer, speaker and journalist have made him a household name, as he has presented a number of TV and radio shows since his retirement from politics.

Michael first began his political journey by joining the Conservative Research Department in 1976, however after being an MP for nearly 20 years, he retired from active politics in 2005 to pursue a successful media career.

He is a regular guest on BBC1's weekly political discussion programme This Week, and has made a number of documentaries on a variety of subjects, such as BBC2's Great British Railway Journeys, in which the accompanying book has sold over 41,000 copies.

Ever since, he has reinvented and endeared himself to many with his respect for the workmanship found in the great railways of the world, and their effect on the daily lives of people.

Due to his extensive career in politics, the corporate world and the media, Michael has proven himself to be a top event host through his array of experiences and adventures and his entertaining and captivating personality.

In the show itsself, Michael also engages himself with the audience, for example presenting a Q and A in the second half of the performance, making each event unique. Even from the last time he came to Gawsworth!

He also frequently incorporates visual aids such as photos and video clips from his travel documentaries to enhance his storytelling of his insightful experiences over the years.

His experiences with railways and travel have also given Michael's authenticity and relatability to shine through his performances as he never fails to account for his personal reflections of his engaging storytelling that resonate with his audiences.

This makes Michael appeal to a broad audience which ultimately inflated his huge success in the media and on stage to produce a memorable performance for all of those who watch.

The performance will take place on the large festival stage in front of the hall.

No children under the age of 6 may attend performances.

The event will be held tonight at 7:30 at Gawsworth Hall, SK119RN

Tickets for tonight cost £27. You can book tickets at gawsworthhall.com.