Swanwick 2017

 

How hard it is to capture the essence of a wonderful week away mixing with 285 fellow writers!  To simply say that my second visit to Swanwick Writers Summer School, held at The Hayes Conference Centre, Derby, was 'fabulous' tells you one word and no flavour.  If I were to give you a moment by moment detailed report you would be bored, unless you are another writer!  So try to imagine being a child in a sweet shop or toy shop where there is so much to choose from and you want it all.  This was what it feels like opening the programme and selecting which workshops and courses you will attend.  There is something for every genre - short stories, fiction, crime writing, page to stage, poetry etc etc. 

I paced myself better this year and was able to enjoy 'time out' too.  The nature in and around The Hayes enhances the experience offering tantalising colours, lush grassed areas where cows graze and undulating lawns outside the vast buildings that make up the accommodation, dining halls, chapel, teaching rooms and staged hall.  There is only one thing missing, for me, a swimming pool.  I first went to The Hayes some 40 years ago when summers were hot and outdoor bathing could be enjoyed in the place where there is now a prayer labyrinth, which as lovely as this is and well situation by the chapel, a wee dip would have been a bonus.

This year I booked myself in for a 1-1 with author, Della Galton.  She gave me rich advice, tips and encouragement for my novel in progress which I will action with grateful thanks.  I am also grateful to fiction writer, Sue Moorcroft for making me realise I am investing valuable TIME and MONEY into the dream that I hope will become a reality - my own published novel or three.  Lucy Felthouse gave an up to date presentation of marketing and promotions and I enjoyed chatting with both Lucy and Sue at dinner or in the bar.

I was also befriended by 3 lovely ladies who were white badgers (wearing white badges denotes that they are first timers) and we had many a laugh over dinner and felt totally at ease with one another in a very short time.  New friendships are formed at Swanwick, I missed Karen Botha from last year, and was amazed at who remembered me from the 68th SWSS.  I guess next year, being a 70th year, will be extra special.  It was nice too to meet fellow Tweeters and Facebook users, putting faces and character to a Twitter picture is very satisfying.

I can't end without mentioning the Unwind your Mind course.  It did what it said on the tin.  Stillness in a busy day, movement to stretch and revitalise your body - mindfulness, Thai Chi and free dancing to music that moves the soul.  Thank you Zana.

The last evening with awards and entertainment sends us off with a resolve - I will write 500 words and I will write 500 more....  sang with gusto.  I can not recommend Swanwick Writers Summer School highly enough.  It brings out the best in the shy, the depressed, the doubter, the underachiever, the ill, the old, the young and all ages, abilities and disabilities in between.  I'll be going again God willing.  For more information go to www.swanwickwriterssummerschool.org.uk

In the Summer Time

 

Published by Black Swan, part of Transworld/Random House Group

 

Reconnecting with a holiday village after 20 years Miranda, her family, a friend and ex boyfriends find that not much has changed - only life happened in the intervening years.  It is a story of intrigue, family fun, secrets, sorrows and love.  Three generations spend time away from the city, peer groups and job pressures to give Jack a final farewell.  The scenery of the beach, country lanes, local stores and rental cottage with pool are all very vivid.

 

If you have ever been to Cornwall you will remember the pace of life there, names of places and images your mind brings forth as you read.  I was thrilled that TRAGO MILLS was mentioned as that shopping complex brings fond memories from my teenage years (over 40 years ago!).

 

I love the cover - anything with beach huts will always appeal to me as they are so British and attractive - these painted candy pink and a hint of pale blue.  Beach huts for me are landmarks of holidays on the coasts of our shores that will never be forgotten.

 

Well done Judy Astley.