Germaine Greer to launch proceedings.
‘Powerful women’ will be the theme for this year’s free Wellington Literary Festival which takes place at a range of venues across the Shropshire market town from Saturday 28th September until Saturday 19th October.
One of the largest free literary festivals in the UK, the 17th annual event features an exciting line-up of local and national authors, poets and guest performers plus creative workshops and competitions. A highlight will be an evening with celebrity writer Germaine Greer on Saturday 28th September; known for her controversial best seller The Female Eunuch, she will launch the celebration of influential women writers.
The bi-centenary of the publication of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice will also be marked with three café discussion groups and the centenary of Telford’s most popular author, Ellis Peters, will be highlighted at a presentation by Martin Edwards. Mens’ contribution to the arts will not be forgotten with Antony Penrose talking about the artist Picasso while new this year, will be an art competition and display based on his inspiration. Back by popular demand, an evening with the very popular poet and entertainer Ian McMillan will undoubtedly be a lively family event and there will also be a chance to meet local authors and buy their books in Wellington Library.
There’s also the chance to win an overnight B&B stay for a family of four on Friday, 11th October which is being offered by the Clairmont Guest House in Wellington, plus a VIP family ticket to see poet and entertainer Ian McMillan and a signed copy of his latest book. To enter the online prize draw www.visitironbridge.co.uk/september-competition; closing date is 23rdSeptember with the winner being drawn on 24th September.
For further information call Wellington Town Council on 01952 567697, www.wellington-shropshire.gov.uk/literary-festival; for accommodation suggestions and other things to see and do visit www.visitironbridge.co.uk