I am delighted to be playing a small part in The South Hams Literary Festival, which will be held in Ivybridge on 4th and 5th October at a variety of local venues. This festival offers a welcoming space for all, with events that are free of charge and open to people of every age and interest. Please consult the South Hams Literary Festival programme and use the provided event QR codes to secure your place, as spaces are limited.
Wellbeing & Memoirs – In Conversation: The Story Within
On Saturday, 4th October, from 1.30 to 2.30, I will be participating in a special session dedicated to the theme of wellbeing and memoirs. Advance booking is essential due to limited space.
During this session, I will be reading excerpts from my memoir, Fly Home to Your Heart, sharing how creative expression has supported my own journey of healing and recovery. The event will include a discussion on the power of memoir and poetry to foster resilience and aid in recovery, featuring myself and Mary Elizabeth Earl, in conversation with interviewer Catherine Dodd. This session will take place at Hawthorn House, 1 Exeter Road, Ivybridge PL21 0BN.
Attendees at the festival will have the opportunity to discover new books and ideas through a wide range of inspiring events.
Media Appearances
On Tuesday, 23rd September, I will take part in a discussion alongside Mimi and several other authors on Ferndale Radio in Plymouth. The program will air from 12:00 to 13:30. For further details, please visit www.fcradio.co.uk/. Many other authors are taking part in interviews on the following dates: all 12 to 1.30: 16th and 30th September.
The South Hams Authors Network is a wonderful group for local writers, founded by Alison Huntingford. The network meets regularly in Ivybridge and has previously hosted its literary festival at the Clay Factory in 2022, across various Ivybridge venues in 2023, and this year at select locations throughout the area. All events are free of charge, but as always, be sure to book early using the QR codes above to guarantee your spot.
Celebrating Local Creativity
I am continually encouraged by the enthusiasm and creativity of people throughout the South Hams. This vibrant community offers a diverse range of unique events and experiences, making it a truly inspiring place for all involved.
Many other local towns and cities have wonderful events, and nearby Totnes has many groups and regular events, including weekly poetry stand-up sessions, a free Poetry group once a month at Castle Books, pop-up poetry shops, and festivals held throughout the year. These endeavours are marked by a strong spirit of mutual support and collaboration, further enriching our local creative landscape.
