Author and University Experts Join Forces for Writing Event

Budding writers can get tips from a bestselling author and creative writing experts from the University of Worcester at an upcoming event.

The Writers’ Day, held at The Hive on Saturday March 11, which runs 9.30am – 2.30pm, will offer a variety of activities from writing workshops and the chance to get feedback on your work to advice on how to get published. Participants can also hear from Mike Gayle, author of Sunday Times top 10 bestseller My Legendary Girlfriend.

University of Worcester Lead for Arts and Culture, David Broster, said: “This event provides a fantastic opportunity for anyone who holds ambitions of being a published writer, whether they are looking for some inspiration to get started on that journey or already have work underway and want to know the next steps. The partnership between Worcestershire Libraries and the University of Worcester allows us to bring together experts who can share their knowledge and experience to help budding writers from across the county to hone their skills and meet local published authors.”

Mr Gayle is the author of 12 novels including Mr Commitment, Turning Thirty and Wish You Were Here. His books have been translated into over 30 languages. He will open the event, talking about his career so far, followed by a panel discussion on 'How To Get Published' with crime authors Sue Watson, Carla Kovach and Charlie Barnes.

There are three writing workshops to choose from on the day led by members of staff from the University’s School of Humanities. Senior lecturer in Media & Culture, Katy Wareham Morris, herself a published writer, will explore how to write stories which are led by characters and their emotions, thoughts and feelings rather than their actions.

Dr Charley Barnes, published writer and Associate Lecturer at the University of Worcester, will address crime fiction. She will consider the foundations of crime writing, including detective; landscape; and the criminal. Throughout the workshop she will work with participants to develop each of these areas to consider the ways that one can feed the other when developing a cohesive plot.

The third workshop, led by Ruth Stacey, lecturer in Creative Writing, will focus on memoir writing and is designed to help writers produce a gripping narrative. Attendees will use writing prompts to produce some memoir drafts and practice how to dramatize memories using description and dialogue.

The event, which is part of the Hive’s Cultural Programme, also includes drop-in sessions with local author Abigail Osborne, who will answer any questions or give advice on writing or getting published.

The day ends with an open mic session, giving people the opportunity to share their work or share a favourite piece of prose.

Tickets cost £3 per person. Participants can join in the full day or take part in selected sessions.