Geza Vermes's translation of the Dead Sea Scrolls, first published in 1962, has sold half a million copies. His latest book is Christian Beginnings from Nazareth to Nicaea (Allen Lane). 

Sarah Vine is a journalist and author, and is a leader writer at The Times.

Nigel Vinson is a Conservative peer and entrepreneur who has won the Queen's Award to industry. He is a founder director of the Centre for Policy Studies and Life Vice President of the Institute of Economic Affairs.

Spike Vrusho is a journalist and taxi driver. He is the author of Benchclearing: Baseball's Greatest Fights and Riots and lives in Rhinebeck, New York.