Wellington literary festival is a real page-turner

The 19th Wellington Literary Festival started last Thursday with a children's poetry competition in Wellington Library.

The competition was for children aged five to 11 and they were tasked with writing a poem with the theme being "The World's Greatest".

Events over the weekend included a talk by local author Paul Costello and a tour of Wellington's literary heritage, while forthcoming attractions include audiences with journalist Polly Toynbee and actor and author Tom Watt, who ghost wrote David Beckham's autobiography.

Councillor Pat Fairclough, chairman of the festival committee, said: "The children's poetry competition was brilliant. The children loved it and they were so relaxed in the library.

"The library has enhanced the festival so much, and it really is a place where people feel comfortable, it is like home for so many.

"Then we had Paul Costello here last night where he described what it is like running a bed and breakfast here in Shropshire.

"He was breathtaking and hilarious. He didn't read it like a report, he makes it feel alive.

"Also this year we have Patrick Quirke, who will be talking about the origins of Wolverhampton Wanderers. Tom Watt appears on October 15 at AFC Telford from 7.30pm, and Polly Toynbee's talk at Wrekin College on October 17 at 7.30pm.

On Friday Kurly McGeachie, Birmingham Poet Laureate finalst will be at All Saints Church at 7.30pm, while internationally renowned children's author Catherine Cooper has a session on October 24, focusing on writing for young people.

And local authors will be in Wellington Library between 10am and 2pm on Saturdays during October to discuss their work and writing in general.

For more information on the festival call Wellington Town Council on (01952) 567697.