Discover Downham in Downham Market holding Create and Thrive creative writing workshop with Gilly Beckett

Aspiring creative writers are being invited to book on to a series of events being held at a town’s old fire station.

Gilly Beckett, MA Creative Writing and Wellbeing, has over the last twelve months tutored a series of successful creative writing workshops at Discover Downham and officials say they are pleased to welcome her back.

Gilly runs original creative writing workshops for writers, and those keen to re-awaken and refine writing skills.

The Discover Downham Heritage Centre. Picture: Ian Burt

This course will be taking place on the following Saturdays in July (6, 13 and 20) from 2pm-5pm and is designed to stimulate your passion and your enjoyment for writing.

Session 1: liminal space can be a powerful tool for writers

Session 2: crime and thriller writing

The description for this session is as follows: “Everyone writes in very different ways. Some begin a story with a carefully constructed outline. Others plunge straight in and leave the specifics to sort themselves out.

“Crime writing, like every art form, is a mix of inspiration and craft and although you can’t be taught how to write - you can learn the craft of effective story-telling.”

Session 3: writing for children

The description for this session is as follows: “Not an easy option. A hugely competitive area. Never use the line when submitting a manuscript ‘I wrote this story for my children/grandchildren/nieces/nephews etc and they enjoyed it’.

“Publishers will only want to take on something that has appeal for a wide range of children. First decision - who exactly are you writing for?”

Booking for all three sessions can be done through: Eventbrite for £30.

If you only wish to attend one or two sessions, contact Discover Downham.

There is a free adjacent car park. The centre has modern facilities and is fully accessible .

Bring with you a notepad, pen, pencil or tablet if you prefer.

There will be a short break mid-way through the session and hot and cold drinks and biscuits will be provided.