Eight years ago, having finally taken steps to fulfil my ambition of writing (creatively – rather than for articles about tax!) by joining my local writers’ group, I was persuaded to attend The Writers’ Summer School. What an amazing experience! To be surrounded by fellow writers and immerse myself in writing and learning about writing – from putting words on paper to publishing the finished work – was  life-changing. I’ve been back every year since – and have seen my own short stories published and achieve success in competitions. I’m so impressed by Swanwick and what it does for writers that I’ve also volunteered for the committee which organises the school (a charitable, not commercial, organisation)!

Now in its 67th year, Swanwick (as we call it for short) is a week-long programme for writers of all ages, abilities and genres featuring courses, workshops, panels and one-to-one sessions. This year’s school will be held between 8 and 14 August 2015, as always in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside at The Hayes Conference Centre at Swanwick. All courses, lectures, talks, workshops, entertainment  and full board accommodation are included from just £440 plus day and part-time attendance is available (credit card booking is available). This year’s inspirational guest speakers include Simon Brett, winner of the 2014 Crime Writers’ Association Diamond Dagger, and Della Galton, novelist, short-story expert and writers’ agony aunt.

Short story courses for 2015 include A Twist In The Tale by Linda Lewis and Writing For Magazines by Della Galton but there are plenty of courses for other aspects of writing too (novel writing, poetry, writing for children, scriptwriting etc).

For programme information and a booking form visit the website at  www.swanwickwritersschool.org.uk. Booking forms can also be obtained by emailing ‘secretary@swanwickwritersschool.org.uk’ or calling 07765 890 733.

I hope to see you there!

Cathy Grimmer