Covenanters and women crime writers will be two of the themes woven into this year’s Wigtown Spring Book Weekend.
The programme has just been unveiled for the event, which takes place each year in Scotland’s National Book Town, from 2-4 May.
Organised by the Association of Wigtown Booksellers it features dozens of events from author talks to guided walks, writing, photography and music workshops – and even cocktails and a Middle Eastern mezze.
The Spring Weekend is a great opportunity to enjoy a small-scale festival while exploring Wigtown’s abundance of book shops and other attractions.
Among the authors taking part will be:
- Alex Gray, author of the gripping DSI Lorimer series, who will offer insights on creating compelling characters and stories.
- Marsali Taylor, whose books are set in Shetland, will explore the craft of crime writing.
- And Lynne McEwan, newspaper photographer turned crime writer whose DI Shona Oliver stories are based in Dumfries and Galloway, will be in in conversation with book shop owner Joyce Cochrane.
This year the programme reflects the area’s strong associations with the Covenanters – the 17th-century Presbyterians who resisted, and often gave their lives, to defend their religious beliefs when they were threatened by the Stuart kings.
Philip Paris will introduce his new novel A Fire in Their Hearts, inspired by true events during the persecution of the Covenanters.
Donna Brewster will lead a Martyrs’ Walk around the sites linked to the execution by drowning of two Covenanter women who refused to betray their beliefs.
In The Killing Time Iain Stewart and James Robertson use writing and photography to look at the history of the Covenanters in Galloway, including the fate of John Milroy (one of Stewarts ancestors) who was executed in 1685.
Thanks to funding from Live Literature the programme is especially rich with Scottish Writers and National Lottery funding has been especially important in supporting children’s activities.
Among the attractions for younger visitors are a drop-in clay-making workshop for 3–12-year-olds, daily Birds, Bugs and Blooms activities hosted by storyteller Renita Boyle, and a Children’s Book Nook.
Dr Jacqui Robertson, Chair of The Association of Wigtown Booksellers, said: “We’re thrilled to have such a vibrant programme packed with inspiring authors, lively discussions and hands-on workshops.
“This year’s event promises a mix of themes, exploring the enduring legacy of the Covenanters, the bold narratives of women crime writers, tales of historical courage and a celebration of Galloway dark skies and our natural environment.
“So, whether you’re coming here for the stories, the workshops, or simply to immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere, we hope you’ll find something to inspire you at every turn.”
A little later in the month, 16 May, there will be a celebration of Book Town’s 28th birthday – with tea, coffee, cake and live fiddle music in the town gardens.
- Picture is free to use – see caption details below.
- For the full Spring Weekend programme and to book tickets go to www.wigtownbookfestival.com.
-Ends-
Notes
Picture: Credit Wigtown Festival Company
L-R (Back): Shaun Bythell, Dr Jacqui Robertson, Donna Brewster, Julie Houston, Glenn Cooksley
L-R (Front): David Sumner, Joyce Cochrane, Renita Boyle, Jacqui Bolam, Ian Cochrane
For media information: Matthew Shelley at Matthew@ScottishfestivalsPR.org or 07786 704299.
Wigtown Festival Company Ltd, 26 South Main Street, Wigtown, Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland, UK. Wigtown Festival Company Ltd is a company limited by guarantee with charitable status. Scottish Charity No. SCO3798.