Wirral Writers Online

2012-01-31T06:27:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
Just an update regarding the Maynah Lewis Competition theme. At the last meeting a decision was made to use the same format as last year. However instead of choosing from lists Cheryl had brought a set of 9 dice with symbols or pictures on each face. These were thrown three times and each set noted down. We then voted on which set we preferred and the winning combination is as follows.
Hand, mobile phone, wigwam, arrow, tree, new moon, footprint, aeroplane, a theatre Comedy/tragedy mask.
Now all you have to do is create a story of 1600 words using them. The closing date for the competition will be the second meeting in May. This competition is only open to club members. Full comp rules will be emailed out shortly.
Next meeting 3rd February hope you can make it.
cheers
chris

2012-01-02T12:53:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Hope you all had a happy Christmas and New Year. Mine was like most people's hectic with visitors and visiting. Lovely catching up with far flung family.
Now back to normal whatever that is supposed to be.
This Friday 6th January sees our first meeting of 2012. Hope you can all come along to contribute to selecting a theme for the Maynah Lewis May Competition. It looks like Cheryl has secured us a judge for this year's competition but she will tell us all about it on Friday.
Just had a thought that because it's both the Queen's Jubilee and the Olympics this year we should have a mini competition this summer. What do you think? Let us know either on this site or at the meeting if you can attend.
Chris

Wirral Writers Party

2011-12-02T23:14:00.001-08:00

Great Party last night - one of the best Wirral Writers' do's I can remember. The highlight has to be Alan on his mandolin, brilliant! If I'd have thought on I'd have recorded the gig and put it on You Tube. Next year, maybe.

I have some sales news - my story 'Thousand War Soldier' is now up at Ray Gun Revival . Thanks to everyone for your input on this one, it seems to have paid off. Why not pop over the website and see how the final edit looks.

And if you're in the mood for some genre fiction next weekend (Sat 10th December) I'll be at Parallel Dimensions in West Kirby, doing some reading and chatting. Also Jon Mayhew will be there, so please come along and say hello.

2012

2011-11-20T13:36:00.001-08:00

New calendar is now posted in the side bar. I'm afraid I've been a little lax about updating this but now we're all set for 2012.

Highlights for the coming year:
Christmas Party next meeting on 2nd December. Bring a raffle prize, some food and a Christmas Story (about 500 words) Friends and family also welcome.

18th May is the entry date for the Maynah Lewis competition. Details of next year's theme will be posted as soon as we've agreed one.

The winter competition will take place on 16th September and the AGM is on 21st October.

2011-09-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

Hi,
this is a PS to the last post.
Claire Oxley who judged our Short Story Competition sent her thanks for the gifts we gave her.
She also gave us some information of forcoming events at the library.
In conjunction with the `Friends of the Library the following will be held there.
Macmillian Coffee morning Friday 30th Sept 10.30-12noon.
Poetry Workshop with Judy Ugonna and Gill McEvoy Saturday 1st October 11am-1pm
(Places must be booked in advance and cost £7 phone Claire -Di on 643 7219)
Also look at Poem Catchers on www.poemcatchers.com for other workshops etc
A talk by Elizabeth Williams entitled `Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte and Love`
will be held on Thursday 13th October 2.30pm cost £3
A talk by Anthony Peake author entitled `J.B. Priestly:The Time Plays`
will be held on Saturday 29th October at 2.30pm cost £3
( If you don't know about this author look at www.anthonypeake.com)
Chick-lit Authors Ledley Pearse and Judy Astley will be at Bromborough Civic Centre
on Monday 10th October at 7pm tickets £5 (includes wine) BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Professor Stephen Harding talks about a new project Viking Wirral and DrakenHarald Fairhair Longship Project. Tuesday 11th October 2.15pm at Birkenhead Central Library Free event but BOOKING ESSENTIAL
An Evening with Sir Andrew Motion introducing his new book of poems `The Cinder Path`
£8 including wine at Bromborough Civic Centre at 7pm on Wednesday 12th October

For leaflets and further details at any library.

Chris

2011-09-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

For those of you who could not make the meeting on Friday, you missed another interesting evening. The September Competition was held and once again the entries proved to be a wonderful mixed bag of goodies. Members were asked to write a monologue subject matter open.
From Gordon's account of using `BABS` on a training sortie when in the RAF to Frank's dark thoughts of a suicidal band player, each piece had much merit. Perhaps Tom's clever re-vamp of the Three Little Pigs would have grabbed your attention. Ann's reflective piece was sad and moving. Whilst Helen's Bride's thoughts made you smile. Barbara's hapless accident prone heroine was also very funny. Liz's character was instantly recognisable we've all met some-one like the `queen` And then on to Alan's lyrical thoughts about a new-born grandchild and the passing on of knowledge and culture through the generations.
Alan's `Life's Conveyer Belt` won 1st place
Liz's `Queen` won 2nd place
Barbara's `Monologue` won 3rd place

All the marks and comments slips will be handed out at the next meeting so that the authors can see how they fared.

Next meeting is on 7th October and the following meeting on the 21Oct is the AGM
please try to attend this when we discuss amongst other things how the club is progressing and air any ideas or concerns.

Chris

Story Sale

2011-09-02T05:20:00.000-07:00

I have a story sale to announce this week. "Call Me Murph" sold to Short-Story.Me and is now online. Check out their web-site if you get a chance, it's a good market and they take a wide variety of story types.
Short-Story.me

I read the story at Wirral Writers a couple of months back, so thanks to everyone for your comments and feedback, much of which went into the final draft. Just goes to show how valuable and powerful is the hive-mind of Wirral Writers. (If you're not a member, think about joining us. Feedback works.)

Mike Wood

2011-08-22T11:24:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, I had an interesting talk with someone this weekend about blogging.
And it was mentioned that some writers think the blog is likely to fade in importance. I was told that one writer Jenn Ashworth has now decided her blog has gone as far as she can take it and has posted her last one a few days ago. I decided to read it and I would be interested to hear whether or not you think she is right.
Go to jennashworth.co.uk/blog
I'm mentioning this because of what Cheryl was saying regarding publishers preferences for writers to media savvy. Presumably this includes blog sites.
Over to you.
Chris

2011-08-20T13:20:00.000-07:00

Anyone reading my blog will notice I've put my Wirral Writers report there instead of here. As I don't know if blogs can be transferred I am going to repeat the report here.
Last night was another good evening of interesting work. The Summer competition produced some really good writing. Nick's story read last night was gripping. And Liz who has taken her story one step further by turning it into a script had Nick and Alan reading the main characters.
I have taken on board some of the comments regarding my own story and have spent some time today in re-vamping my tale.
Barbara read us a delightful story about a boy who is a sort of Just William of the back streets. I am sure there is a market for this story.
Cheryl's romance under the hot Tuscany sun is hotting up too.
the September Competition was discussed and it was decided that this year we are to try our hands at writing a monologue of 500 words. No theme. So get writing and bring your efforts with you on the second meeting in September (Friday 16th).

The next meeting is on the 2nd September.
Hope you can come.

Chris

2011-08-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

A bit later than I hoped to post but I expect Alan and Mike have already reported how the Wine and Reading evening went.
I think we put on a good show even though we were put on in the last half with only 45minutes. If everyone who had showed an interest had been able to come, some may not have been able to read. Once again I think the organisers need to be more strict so that every group has a fair share of the alloted time.
Has the September competition been discussed?
Looking forward to the next meeting on the 19th August.

Chris

Maynah Lewis Cup 2011

2011-07-17T12:08:00.000-07:00

What a terrific night last Friday! We have a 2011 winner of the Maynah Lewis cup - James Rhodes.
James is one of our newer members and this was his first Maynah Lewis entry. A most deserving winner. I swear you could hear a pin drop in the room as he read us his wonderful, multi-layered story.

This is James receiving the trophy from our judge, Clare Oxley. A huge thank-you to Clare for doing a terrific job. She gave lots of advice and guidance on all the stories and helped to make this year's award night a memorable one.

2011-06-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Just a few words to say what a lovely day we had on Sunday at Brook Meadows. The meal was very good and the company excellent. (It goes without saying)

Once again the flash ficition proved a hit. The choice of words gave a lot of scope for some quite inventive tales.

I'm sorry I didn't say good-bye to everyone. I got talking and it was five o'clock before we realised it and I assumed that everybody had left. I think Doreen and myself were the last to leave.

The weather, well what can be said of such a stunning Summer Day. the hottest I believe for a few years.

Arthur didn't make it because he had hurt his foot but hopes to be with us on Friday. I didn't pick his email up until Monday.

I've uploaded this photo but it's too small and I'm not sure how to make it larger.

I'll print one out for Friday and bring it with me.

Another piece of news just received a minute ago. Claire Oxley can announce the winner of the Maynah Lewis competition on the 15th July. She will be delighted to talk to us and said it had been great fun reading our entries.

If this date is going to be a big problem for anyone please let me know asap.

Cheers

Chris

2011-06-11T04:31:00.000-07:00

Hi Folks,

Sorry I didn't attend the last meeting but should be okay for the next on 17th June.

All the entries for the Maynah Lewis competition has gone to our judge Clare Oxley and we are waiting now for her make contact with a date she can present the winner with the cup. And give us a talk.

As you know the Library with its Friends of the Library group is holding another `Wine and Writing` evening on Friday 22nd July. We have been asked if our members would like to come along and read a piece of their work. Cheryl and Tom read at the last one in March but it would be nice if more of us could make it this time.
The Library celebrates its 40th Anniversary in July and it has been decided that the theme for the readings should be about 40th or Ruby anniversaries. So if you have some ideas on that theme please write them down and bring them to the evening.

Before then the next social date is 26th June for Lunch at Brookmeadow Hotel & Resturant. Meeting at between 12-1pm for lunch at opproximately 1o'clock.
If the weather is good as it has been the last few years we should be able to enjoy our drinks and chats outside.
Last year we had a flash fiction competition for after dinner chat. Cheryl gave us a teasing few words which had to be used in a piece of no more that 75 words. It was great fun and if everyone likes the idea perhaps we could do again this year. This can be discussed at the next meeting for any comments or other ideas.

Hope you are all well.
Cheers
Chris

2011-04-08T02:22:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, The 1st of April meeting was well attended and we welcomed two new members too. At this meeting the theme for the Maynah Lewis Competition was chosen. After a vote the following theme was the one decided on. 1,600 words with the following included. Character: Pensioner; Conflict: making a sacrifice; Weather: fog; Setting: cave; Object: a rubber chicken. Any genre you feel would do justice to this selection. Unfortunately there isn't much time as entries must be submitted at our May 20th Meeting. Don't forget submit using a pen name only. Print in double spacing, number each page. Header sheet Printed with Wirral Writers Maynah Lewis Competition 2011 Your title and pen-name. Hand in your entry in a sealed envelope. A fee of £1 is payable to Gordon. This goes towards club funds. I hope as many of you as possible will enter the competition as it's always great fun when we have the presentation evening to hear everyone's efforts. Get Writing. Chris

Wine and Story Night

2011-02-11T11:57:00.000-08:00

We've been asked to join with Port Sunlight Writers for a Wine and Story night at Bebington library on 3rd March. (7.30 start) I don't know all the details, but I'm sure Wirral Writers will be along to play their part with some fine and varied stories, and I'm sure we can lend a helping hand in the wine consumption part of the evening, too.
I believe we are looking at 10 minute slots. I'd better start trimming.
Should be a good night. Hope to see a good turn out from WW and looking forward to meeting our hosts, Port Sunlight Writers.

2011-01-08T09:49:00.000-08:00

The first meeting of 2011 went well and the much delayed Autumn competition finally took place. Subject for this competition was Hobbies and Interests.
I think we were all surprised and delighted at the variety of interests written about.
Not all the entries were factual thank goodness or else we would all be a little worried that we have a serial killer in our midst. As it was we found we have a singer, a geologist, a genealogist and a philosopher amongst us.
Made my card making seem rather pedestrian.
The history of the puppet Punch as researched by Tom deserves special mention as he revealed some very interesting facts about that strange fellow.
Our winner was Mike with his ironic take on other peoples obesssion with transport spotting with his aptly named entry `I am Not A Bus Spotter`. Congratulations.
Looking forward to our next meeting.
I think we should also put our thinking caps on to come up with a theme for our next Competition in May. Bring your ideas with you.

2010-12-07T05:29:00.000-08:00

December 3rd was our last meeting for 2010 and we celebrated with our annual Christmas Party. Despite the weather we turned up with our goodies and Christmas writings. Mike set us off with his fiendish book quiz that had most of us scratching our heads. Great fun though.
Tom had written a special christmas play in which we all had a part. So many thanks for that, it was great fun to do and we take our hats off to Tom's super casting skills.
For those who couldn't make it, we were thinking of you and hope everything is fine.
Looking forward to next year and our first meeting in January.

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and Sucesssful New Year.

Chris

2010-11-19T12:25:00.000-08:00

Competition in magazine Gardeners World Closing date 28^th February 2011

A poem of no longer than 40lines

Subject Gardens

submit by post or email

email to gwpoetrybbc.com

Post to Gardener's World Magazine, 201 Wood Lane, London W12 7TQ

Include your name, address, telephone number, email address and Poem title

Winner's poem will be published in the June 2011 issue

Prizes 1^st Prize £100 National Garden Gift vouchers, Runner-ups will receive £50 of vouchers

Main terms of conditions Must be your own original work must not have been published in print or online. Nor have been entered into any other competitions.

On entering you grant the BBC perpetual irrevocable and royalty free licence to publish or broadcast your poem in any media.

Winner to be notified by 30^th April 2011

June magazine will on sale from 27^th May

Fog

2010-11-19T12:21:00.001-08:00

The meeting on 19^th November was cancelled due to so many members being unable to travel because of the fog. Unfortunately this was our Winter Comp. night so our competition will have to be postponed. Next meeting is the Christmas party night, so we'll try and fit it in then if time permits. It is a disappointment to all, especially after our long November lay-off (it seems like ages since the last meeting) but hopefully our Christmas night will make up for it, with food, prizes, games... and new for this year, we are promised a spectacular Christmas play by Tom, our favourite playwright.

So cheer up, listen... are those jingle bells I hear?

2010-11-19T12:08:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone

I hope tonight's fog isn't a sign of things to come this winter. It unfortunately put paid to our winter competition night as so few of us could make it to Bebington.
It has been suggested that the competition could be included as part of our Christmas Evening so please bring your entry with you on the 4th December. However if you have written your Christmas piece please bring your seasonal offering too.
Just to remind everyone the Christmas Evening has an open invitation to friends and family to join us. Members are requested to bring something for the Christmas Draw, it's more like a Lucky Dip really as most years everyone gets to receive something.
Please bring your favourite nibbles and drink.
And most of all bring yourselves.

Words Fail

2010-10-02T13:55:00.000-07:00

Here's one of my trunk stories. I've always had a bit of a soft spot for this one. I guess it's appropriate for a blog about writers. (Note, the story is protected by a Creative Commons Attribution, Non-Commercial, No Derivatives licence - see note at the end)

Words Fail

by Mike Wood

“So, tell me, when did this… condition, first manifest itself?”

Doctor Roberts sat back and peered at Malcolm over the top of his bifocals.

“Yesterday afternoon,” said Malcolm. “I’d been marking exam papers all morning and I needed a break, so I walked into town to buy a paper.”

Malcolm unfolded his arms and the doctor could see that his hands were shaking. “It was raining. I went into W H Smiths and just wandered over to the magazines. I picked a few up, you know, just to kill time until the rain passed. I started reading… oh, I don’t know, might have been National Geographic or something. After just a few lines I realised that I wasn’t reading the words any more. I was seeing the words - the letters - but they just didn’t seem to mean anything to me. It was like they’d become jumbled up… scrambled.”

“Has anything like this happened to you before?”

“No. No, of course not. I couldn’t understand. I didn’t panic at first - I thought maybe I’d picked up a foreign language edition or something - only deep down I knew that wasn’t right, I knew that even in another language the words would have, I don’t know, form maybe – some kind of consistency.”

“And?”

“Well, it was nothing like that. They seemed like, random letters… gobbledygook. Only they weren’t even letters. I didn’t recognise any of them. I picked up another magazine, only this time I went for a TV listings mag - one of the cheap ones with soap stars on the front. I thought, hey, there’s not going to be a Bulgarian language version of that one here in the High Street, you know?

“But I couldn’t read it. Not a word.” Malcolm’s voice was getting edgy again. There were the beginnings of hysteria creeping into his manner. His fists were clenching and unclenching, he has licking his lips as they constantly dried out. Doctor Roberts felt the need to offer some reassurance, although he felt by no means comfortable with what he was hearing.

“Have you been working hard lately? You say you’ve been marking exam papers – have you been over-doing it perhaps?”

“I’ve been working hard, for sure. But nothing unusual. Nothing that you’d call excessive.”

I believe that what you are experiencing is a neurological condition called aphasia. Now, I don’t want you to worry, there are many possible causes and it may not be lasting. It could have been brought about by stress or overwork, but at the same time I can’t rule out the possibility of other clinical causes. Neurogenic communication disorders like this can be caused by strokes amongst other things. Yes, it’s conceivable, Mr Jones, that you’ve suffered a mild stroke. It’s unusual for a man of your age, twenty-three, but I’m going to refer you to a colleague at the hospital.”

As Dr Roberts went through the mantra of referral he watched the familiar clashing of emotions, of shock and relief, as they fought for dominance in Malcolm Jones’ features. Shock at having such a stark prognosis laid out for him; relief that he was talking to someone who knew – someone who was in control of a familiar situation.

But Dr. David Roberts was a long way from feeling in control. His calm demeanour was an act. As soon as Malcolm left his surgery, looking shaken, yes, but certainly a little happier, David closed the door and asked his receptionist to hold the next patient. He dropped into his chair, reclining it to its fullest extent. He heaved a long and shuddering sigh and ran his fingers through his thinning grey hair.

Malcolm Jones had been the third inexplicable aphasia case that morning. Two would have been a remarkable coincidence, three was cause for alarm.

He picked up the phone.

“Andrea, morning, it’s Dave, how are you today?”

A pause. Then, “Dave, what can I do for you?”

David had known Andrea McCloud since medical school. They’d been friends for years. She had a small practice about ten miles away.

“Andrea, I’ve had three strange cases this morning, three alarmingly similar cases, and quite frankly, I’m baffled. Patients are coming in with sudden onset of aphasia; identical symptoms. They’ve lost the ability, totally, to read.”

There was silence from the other end of the phone.

“Andrea?”

“Dave, yes, I’m still here. Three you say?” her voice sounded strange, almost distant.

“Yes, all within the last two hours. It’s creepy.”

“Hmm.” Another long silence. “David, I’ve had two cases here.” She said this without emotion. She let it hang in the air for a moment. “The first was my final slot yesterday evening.” Andrea’s voice was flat, unemotional. She was calling him David, not Dave. “David, the second… it’s me. I… I started having difficulty with the patients’ records on my PC. When I came to key-in prescription details I couldn’t recognise the characters on the keyboard. I closed the surgery thirty minutes ago. I’ve been sitting here trying to build up the nerve to call you… no, that’s not quite true. I tried to call you earlier, but… Dave, I couldn’t find your number in my address book. I couldn’t find anything in there, it’s just, it’s rubbish, it’s meaningless scrawl. I’m scared, Dave.”

David Roberts, the doctor whose calm and reassuring bedside manner was known and admired throughout the district, uttered an obscenity. Silence roared back at him through the earpiece of the phone. David moved the phone to his other ear, changing hands. The phone had become wet with perspiration.

“Hold on Andrea,” he said at last, fighting to keep a note of calm in his voice. “I’m coming over. I’ll cancel the rest of my patients this morning.”

“Thanks, Dave. Thank you. You’re a good friend.”

David left his office and gave instructions to Joan, his receptionist, to cancel the remainder of his patients that morning. “Tell them an emergency’s cropped up,” he said.

“What is it, doctor? What’s happened.” Joan asked.

“An emergency, Joan. It’s a bloody emergency.”

David climbed into his BMW and eased the car out of the narrow car park and onto the road. It was usually busy, but today the traffic was quite light. The radio was on and the eleven o’clock news was just starting. The headlines were all about the latest political indiscretions and backstabbing. David barely listened, it was just background noise; his mind was too preoccupied. But then his ears pricked up part way through a short item at the tail end of the news bulletin; a breaking-news report about a large number people in the capital that were said to be experiencing reading difficulties. David turned up the volume control but the news item was brief and light on detail, and the news soon segued smoothly into the sport… “and the England manager will today announce the squad for the forthcoming friendly against Peru. It’s widely believed that… erm… the team will… er…” there was an audible shuffling of papers, a nervous cough. “I’m sorry, let me try that again. I, erm. I’m having a little difficulty here. I… I think maybe I have the wrong glasses. I’ll pass you back to the studio…”

David knew. He knew that a change of glasses would be no help to the unfortunate sports correspondent. He knew that something serious was happening. How widespread was this? National? Global? Would the aphasia be permanent? David pulled the car over to the side of the road. He needed to think. He needed to stop shaking and he needed not to crash the car. He was a doctor. He should be on top of this. What was the procedure here? What should he do? Whatever this thing was it was fast. The evidence pointed to some kind of virus, and in a single day it had moved from obscurity to pandemic. Simultaneous cases here in Lancashire and London, within a day - Christ, the speed of this thing was phenomenal.

David reached out his mobile. He should ring the Strategic Health Authority. He began paging through the directory in his phone: Alan Birch: Andrea McCloud: Barry Williams: Colid dfghs: Dghew Hjfsa… He stared at the display. His hands, already shaking, began to tremble so much he lost his grip on the phone and it fell into the footwell of the car. On the other side of the road there was a bus shelter with a large advertisement in the end panel. It seemed to be for a travel agent of some sort but David could not read the writing. He covered his face with his hands and took several deep breaths. He must take a few moments to regain control of himself before continuing. What good would he be to Andrea now?

A terrifying image came to David’s head of a world where reading had become a forgotten skill. The implications were appalling. Without reading how might knowledge be acquired? How could knowledge and information be stored, or passed from one generation to the next? TV and radio would cease to function, as would schools and colleges. Businesses would fail. Governments could not function. Basic services – health, transport, power…The inevitable downward spiral was dizzying. If this… virus, if that really was the nature of this thing… if this virus is as virulent as at appeared to be, then how could it be stopped? How could research be progressed and communicated? David realised that he was staring ah somethjdb fhat was nkffn lv’vsd vvrlgkl. 48n’ba zfbvl234t9 n ag aagna v goin asdv.? Ie iafnbe sgn KJ\ FFffde…

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Forthcoming Meetings

2010-09-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

A quick update on what's coming up over the next few weeks>>>>

Next meeting, 1st October, is our AGM. If anyone has anything to go on the agenda please email me.

15th October is the night when we learn who wins the Maynah Lewis Cup for 2010. We are pleased to welcome this year's judge, Judith Railton, who has agreed to announce the winner, present the cup, and give a little talk. Looking forward to it.

Now, important, THERE IS NO MEETING ON FRIDAY 5TH NOVEMBER. This is because the annual fireworks display and ritual burning of Mayer Park takes place that night, and there will be nowhere to park our cars. So it gives us an extra night of writing at home to prepare for Friday 19th November, when we will hold our annual short competition.

For those of you who are new, here's how it works: We each write a 500 word piece (this year it is an article about a hobby or interest) and on the 19th Nov meeting we read it out. Nobody says a word, instead we mark each story out of ten, on a score sheet, and write some brief comments. Then we add up the scores and somebody wins.

Then on 3rd of December we wrap up the year with our Christmas Party. More details about this to follow.

Brook Meadow

2010-08-22T12:58:00.000-07:00

Just back from this year's writer's meal at the Brook Meadow Hotel. Another succession outing and the weather continues to be kind to us, allowing us to once more extend our afternoon into the gardens. Good to see some new faces this year - I hope that Nick, Tom and Linda enjoyed the occasion.

No photo this year I'm afraid. I spent so long trying to set up the camera and figure out the self timer that the batteries died before I managed to actually take the picture. Ho hum.

Cheryl presented us with a new challenge - a flash fiction piece in just 75 words, five of which were specified in advance. As we only had yesterday to knock something together it was great to see so many having a go. If anyone wants to post their efforts, feel free to put then up on the blog.

This year's Maynah Lewis competition is in the process of being judged. We're pleased to have Judith Railton, the creative writing tutor from 3L's as our competition judge this year. Judith is also editor for The Wirral Society and for The Wirral committee for CPRE, the Campaign to Protect Rural England. We're very grateful to her for giving her time to do this. Details of the grand prize ceremony to follow.

I promised some info from Dee Rivaz about writing activities in the Mold/Ruthin area. Here goes:

Mondays Sept 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th 10am to 12 noon.

Weekly Workshops for Pinboard Writers’ Group at the
Daniel Owen Centre, Mold.
Free taster workshop sponsored by NIACE Dysgu Cymru for their ‘Sign Up
Now’ Autumn Festival of Learning.

Venue: Nantclwyd y Dre, Castle St Ruthin, LL15 1DP.

All levels of skill and experience welcome.

This workshop will concentrate on stimulating ideas for new writing in the atmospheric parlour of this 15th century town house and its peaceful gardens.

Thurs 16th Sept: 7 pmOpen Mic evening, Haydn Rees Room, Clwyd Theatre Cymru. Free slots for participants:£2 for audience tickets. Book your slot early as they are limited! Great opportunity for writers to share their work – poetry or prose. Contact Academi North Wales Fieldworker, Sioned Jones on: sioned@academi.org or 01766 522 817 to book.

Sat 25th Sept : 11am to 4 pm
Free taster workshop sponsored by NIACE Dysgu Cymru for their ‘Sign Up Now’ Autumn Festival of Learning.
Venue: Y Caban. Plas Newydd, Hill St, Llangollen, LL20 8AW.
All levels of skill and experience welcome.
This workshop will concentrate on stimulating ideas for new writing in
the extraordinary grounds of Plas Newydd, home to the Two Ladies of Llangollen.
Take advantage of this opportunity to work in the company of other writers, and see what there is to sign up to this autumn.

Mon 27th Sept: 1 to 3.30pm

Bilingual blankets, banners and bunting! Free Bilingual craft and writing workshop at Rhydymwyn Valley Park Visitor Centre. This is an experimental project, supported by Menter Iaith, Everyone welcome but the hope is that Welsh learners will take the opportunity to explore and practise their Welsh in a totally informal situation. The focus of the craft activity will be to fashion squares that interpret an idea through images and words in each language, in any media (that’s workable!) and by any method preferred - collage, printing, appliqué, embroidery, felt, knitting, crochet and so on. The idea would be that these smaller pieces could then be made up into larger items like blankets, throws, hangings, friezes or even flags or celebratory bunting (dare I say there might be a few ideas for Christmas here?).

We are going to meet once a month for a few months to see if the idea takes off, so please do come and join us. There will be tutorial support and ideas and resources to start us off, but the more people who can bring their own skills and materials to add to the equation, the better!

A Good Week

2010-05-13T11:59:00.000-07:00

Two pieces of news this week. Firstly, my Writer's of the Future story has been recorded and is currently running on StarShipSofa (which is nice, because StarShipSofa is also my favourite podcast) and to add some extra spice the story is being put up in a head-to-head against a piece by the writer Frederic Brown, old writer vs new writer. (I'm the new writer, by the way - I guess my bio picture hasn't been studied too closely.)

So if anyone wants to vote, please pop over to the Starship and hit the button - but listen to the stories first and judge on merit, I'm not advocating any log-rolling here, even though I stand to be publicly humiliated before the whole planet.)

And then, hot on the heels of this piece of news, I also have an acceptance from Jupiter magazine for my SF story 'The Bottle Garden'. Those with a good memory might recall my reading this at the writers group about a year ago - so thank you to everyone, your advice and suggestions were (mostly) heeded and have resulted in a sale. And anyone who is not part of Wirral Writers, please come along and join us, because our little crit group really can make the difference between a story getting out there in print or just languishing in a drawer.

Maynah Lewis Comp

2010-05-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

A reminder to those who have not been to some of our recent meetings, the closing date for Maynah Lewis competition entries is Friday 21st May.

The theme for this year's short story is 'travel'. Entries should be of 1600 words or less and your name must not appear anywhere on the script. Inventive pseudonyms are therefore encouraged.

So, just ten days remain. Start writing!

2010-04-21T02:35:00.000-07:00

Hi Mike,
got your email, thanks, but unable to reply via email all my post is being returned to me. Can't think why and I don't understand the reasons given.
Lovely barbie weather during the day, though this morning the fog was so thick it stopped the ferries running and slowed the rush hour traffic so much that the carpet layer arrived at 7.30am instead of 7am. I don't know what surprised me most the fog or the fact that tradesmen start early here.
I'm glad everything is on the way with John Oakden and hopefully I'll be back before June, ash permitting of course.
Will contact again through this link if anything crops up that might be of particular interest.
Regards

Creative Writing/Blogging Project

2010-03-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

I've had an email from Elaine Speight who is an artist and curator based on the Wirral. She's currently doing some work in the housing renewal (HMRI) areas of Wirral, namely Rock Ferry, Tranmere, Birkenhead and Seacombe.
From Thursday 1 April until the end of May she and novelist Jenn Ashworth will be running a series of weekly workshops for residents of HMRI areas in creative writing and blogging.
I'll pass on more details at the next meeting, but in view of the short timescales any members who are interested could email me and I'll pass on Elaine's email address for more info.

Vintage Radio Stories

2010-01-24T12:40:00.000-08:00

A call to everyone at Wirral Writers. We've been asked for more stories for Vintage Radio. This time the stories will be recorded and put out on an internet version of the show.

If you have anything of, say, ten to fifteen minutes, and you want to give it an airing on the WorldWideWeb, please let me know ASAP and I'll let Marion know of our response.

If you're not a member of Wirral Writers and you're reading this, why not come along to our next meeting and give us a try. It's fun, and you too could get to hear your work broadcast.

Mike

Competitions and Opportunities

2009-11-05T11:51:00.000-08:00

Thought I'd share some links to competitions and markets that I came across recently.

The Sunday Times are running a short story comp with a £25,000 first prize. I haven't got the zeroes wrong. £25 grand! I haven't looked at the rules yet but you can bet I will be doing so asap.

www.timesonline.co.uk/shortstoryaward

Radio 4 are looking for 1900-2000 word stories for it's Opening Lines slot at 3.30pm. Nothing sexist, racist nor any swearing. Strong emphasis on narrative avoiding too much dialogue or character description.
Submissions are by post only (so that rules out everyone in the UK at the moment) and guidelines can be found at www.bbc.co.uk/writersroom/writing/submissions_other_readingsunit.shtml

And a market I found recently that I think is way cool. Go to www.weirdtales.net and have a look at their one-minute tales. 60 to 120 words, done on youtube video with background music. The couple I've seen so far are just wonderful and I'm dying to have a go.

Here's one for the poets. Cafe Writers Open Poetry comp. £1,ooo prize money. Almost makes it worth running out and buying a rhyming dictionary, doesn't it. www.cafewriters.org.uk

The Murder Squad

2009-10-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

I've been passed some leaflets for an event at Bebington Library.

The Murder Squad

present: from Crippen to Crime Scene investigation.

A talk by Margaret Murphy and Martin Edwards at Bebington Central Library on Thursday 15th October 7.30pm - 9pm

Tickets £3 (including wine) available from the library or tel. 643-7219 to reserve.

2009-09-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Cheryl,
Just had notification that my email to you couldn't be posted as the address I have wasn't recognised. If you pick this up perhaps you can email me with your email address again.
If you are reading this post the information regarding the Wirral Bookfest is the similiar to what I put in my email to you.
Thanks
Chris

2009-09-20T04:49:00.000-07:00

Just a bit more information about the Wirral Bookfest 2009 that is running from Monday 12th October until Sunday 18th October. A mixture of daytime and evening events.
Amongst the celeb's visiting are Carol Ann Duffy at Bromborough Civic Centre on evng 12th 7.30-9pm £5 including wine. booking essential tickets from Birkenhead, Bromborough and Wallasey Central Libraries. tele 334 1650 for details.
Also on Thursday 15th Oct at 7.30-9pm at Bebington Civic Centre Crime writers Margaret Murphy and Martin Edwards are showing how they dig up the facts for their stories.
Tickets £3 including wine Booking essential contact 0151 643 7219.
On the 14th October Riverside Writers are hosting an evening of readings at West Kirby Library at 7pm-9pm Free but wine and cheese will be offered. Contact 0151 929 7808
Also that evening Greasby Poetry Group are reading their poems not all pc I believe. Join Peggy Poole and friends at Greasby Library at 7.30pm-9pm Free but contact 0151 677 5714.
Sunday 18th at Greasby Library Creative Writing chance to write down your memories of Wirral that may be broadcast later by Radio Merseyside. 10.30am-12noon Free but booking essential.
There are quite a few more events so I would advise you to look on www.wirral.gov.uk/bookfest
for more information.

Autumn Competition

2009-07-19T12:26:00.001-07:00

Here's the theme for our Autumn competition. We found this painting on the wall at Brook Meadow in 2008. Who is she? What's she doing? What's her story? What brought her to this moment?

So tell us. Write a story in 500 words that surrounds this painting. Bring it with you to the 2nd Friday in September (I think) and we'll hear all the stories and judge them.

Vintage Radio

2009-07-12T06:19:00.000-07:00

Time to rummage through your chest-stories again. Marion at Vintage Radio is looking for some more content for the next run of Vintage Radio programming.

I'll have more information soon, but it's likely that shows will go out in November. Marion is looking for short peices, certainly less than ten minutes, say 1500 words max, and particularly something with humour.

If it runs like last time you will get the chance to read your own story on live community radio. I certainly got a big kick from it.

I might have more by our next meeting on Friday, but I guess we'll be needing to submit our stories by early September.

Maynah Lewis Competition

2009-06-19T14:26:00.000-07:00

This year's Maynah Lewis short story competition was for a crime story in 1600 words. We were delighted to welcome award-winning crime writer (and ex Wirral Writers member) Martin Edwards along to judge the competition and present the cup. In addition to judging the competition he also gave us a interesting insight into the life of a successful crime writer. Here's a link to his fascinating blog for more information about his writing.

http://doyouwriteunderyourownname.blogspot.com/2009/06/forgotten-book-israel-rank.html

So, without further ado, this year's winner: yours truly, Mike Wood.

Second place, one of our newest members, Trevor Noble

Here's the presentation

And of course the timing of the competition is such that we can each enter our stories into the Writing Magazine July competition.

Here's the address:

Fiona Berry

Competitions Department (Crime Story)

Writing Magazine

Warner's Group Publications

The Maltings

West Street

Bourne

Lincs

PE10 9PH

Entries to arrive by 14 August

Some more rules: Entries must be typed, double spaced, on A4. There should be a front page with name, address, daytime telephone and (if poss) email address - also story title and word count.

And I've just noticed that there is an entry form. Photocopies are accepted so if you need one let me know and I'll email a copy to you, or I'll bring one to Brook Meadow if you are coming.

2009-06-12T15:20:00.000-07:00

Hi Mike,

Looking forward to hearing about your holiday at Hay.

Loved the painting in May's issue of the ASAA Paint magazine. How lovely for Sarah to have it on the front cover.

Has Barbara informed you that Martin Edwards will be coming to our next meeting (19th June) to announce the winner of the Mayah Lewis?

Sorry if I'm messing up the numbers for Sunday Lunch, but I will not be able to go after all.

Chris

Brook Meadow 2009

2009-06-02T13:01:00.000-07:00

This years Sunday Lunch has been provisionally booked for 1:00 pm on Sunday 28th June. More details to follow.

Back from Hay - Things in Wales

2009-05-31T12:28:00.000-07:00

Hi - back from a hot and sweaty Hay Festival. No rain this year.
I've had an email from Dee Rivaz. It has details of quite a few writing events in North Wales so I'll post her email in full:

June/July 2009
Am driving myself (and probably everyone else) nuts with my disorganisation so this is a trial run of a monthly (or thereabouts) round robin of news items that I have to pass around the writers’ network. If you have news of interesting writing events please do let me know. And I am always looking for more writers to add into my network, it makes promoting events so much easier.

June 2nd An evening with Gillian Clark at Wrexham library 7pm tickets £4/£3. May still be tickets left, phone Hedd ap Emlyn 01978 297430

June 8th First Cross Border Poets Stanza session Theatre Clwyd 7.30 pm Workshop: responding to art (there will be specific provision for this) Followed by short meeting to discuss preferences for future events.

June 20th Launch of Lorna Jenner’s book Liverpool to Loggerheads and exhibition at St George’s Hall Liverpool. Not sure of details as yet but if you are interested and would like to know more, contact me. It is a fascinating book about the close links between Liverpool and Loggerheads with stories from about 200 evacuees. I’ll be at the launch capturing more material on postcards from visitors to to go into an album and become part of the exhibition. Anyone with links should find this a fascinating and moving event/exhibition.
June 25th Poetry Slam
DENBIGH MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL
25th June
Kings Arms, Vale Street,
Denbigh
8.00 p.m.
M.C.: Gareth Glyn Roberts

Calling all Poets!
We are looking for poets – of all levels – to take part in this year’s Poetry Slam.

Here are the Rules:

Each poet needs two poems, that work well when read aloud/performed, and that take less than 3 minutes each to perform (including introduction). Any performances exceeding the 3 minutes limit will be disqualified! Poems can be of any topic, silly or serious.

There are four rounds with about four poets participating in each, and then a final for the winners of each round (hence the need for the second poem - just in case!)

The audience determine the winners of each round by displaying scorecards.
(No appeal procedure.)

£4.00 Admission
Maximum of 16 participants
Each participating poet will receive £10.
The overall winner of the Slam will receive an extra prize!
Interested?
Register your name NOW by contacting: Llio Huws, North Wales Literature Fieldworker
Tel: 01766 522817 / 07817 275965 Email: llio@academi.org

July 3rd Music of Words Ruthin Library 2-5pm Music of Words Workshop
Would you like to find out more about song writing?
Come to a taster session at Ruthin library
2-5 pm Friday 3rd July
and try your hand with guidance from Steve Swindon.
Free but limited places, book early!

Music of Words Evening Event
Open Mic – for singing/performing at Nantclwyd y Dre, Rhuthin
7:30pm Friday 3rd July
Your MC for the evening with be Dee Rivaz
Free admission. Limited performance slot. Register your name NOW by contacting: Llio Huws, North Wales Literature Fieldworker Tel: 01766 522817 Email: llio@academi.org

July 4th Rhydymwyn Writing workshop with Dee 10am til 2 pm at former top secret WWII chemical weapons site, Rhydymwyn Valley Works, near Mold, Flintshire, which was involved in research into the atomic bomb. If you didn’t already know, it’s now a nature reserve, you’ll be relieved to hear!

July 5th Day Retreat for writers Nantclwyd y Dre Parlour, Ruthin. No structure, no workshop, just bring your own materials for a day’s peace and quiet writing. Price included in admission for house.

July 13th Second Cross Border Poets Stanza session at Theatre Clwyd. 7.30. Read and feedback of work developed from June session

If you wish to contact Dee let me know and I'll pass on her details:
Mike

Hay Festival

2009-05-24T07:50:00.001-07:00

Glorious sunshine, writers, readers,good veggie food… That's Hay festival this year. We're trying out a new camp site this year, only ten minutes walk from the centre of Hay but it is a haven of peace and tranquility. At the moment I'm sitting beside a stream hiding from the sun, and I've just passed the 70k mark on the novel. I'm trying to blog every day when I can get an internet connection. Catch the latest on http://mjkewood.blogspot.com. If I can find the bandwidth I'll post a picture or two.

Mike

Maynah Lewis Competition

2009-05-14T13:13:00.001-07:00

Don't Forget - Friday 15th May is hand-in night for all Maynah Lewis story entries. Last chance for a bit of polishing and tightening.

Crime Story

2009-03-21T10:02:00.000-07:00

Barbara has sent me the link to Martin Edwards' blog:

http://www.doyouwriteunderyourownname.blogspot.com/ It's well worth a look. Martin Edwards is a popular and successful crime writer - a winner of the Crime Writers Association Dagger Award in 2008 for his short story 'The Bookbinder's Apprentice' and, for those who missed the news at the last meeting, he has kindly agreed to judge our next Maynah Lewis competition, which is a crime story in 1600 words.

Entries are due on or before our 15th May meeting.

Jon's Good News

2009-03-14T07:49:00.000-07:00

Jon's good news had me scurrying to the Bloomsbury site and I see he will be in exalted company. J K Rowling, Khaled Hosseini, Kingsley Amis, Enid Blyton, Charlotte Bronte (the last two haven't written much lately!)
We eagerly await further news.

Cheryl

Good News

2009-03-13T10:03:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been around recently. I've been a bit preoccupied but it's sorted now.
The good news is, I've got a three book deal with Bloomsbury!!! Still a bit stunned!

2009-03-06T10:10:00.000-08:00

May not be able to make it to the meeting tonight, waiting for confirmation of lift as I have sprained my foot again.
I was really looking forward to hear how the broadcasts went on and would you do it again.
Chrisb

Creativity

2009-03-03T11:56:00.000-08:00

Here's a link to a video that was emailed to me recently. It's a talk on creativity and inspiration by the writer, Elizabeth Gilbert.
http://www.ted.com/talks/view/id/453
It runs for about twenty minutes. I think it's twenty minutes well spent.
Mike

Write Minds

2009-03-01T13:10:00.000-08:00

Here's Cheryl and Mike at the Wirral Writers table at 'Write Minds' in Ruthin.

It was a good event. We met a lot of interesting people; writers, other writing groups, educators... and we were impressed by their enthusiasm for writing and culture in general. And here's a novelty (if you're from Wirral) - they don't close libraries in Denbighshire, they promote and nurture them. There's another event on March 5th at 7.30 PM - a workshop by Caroline Ross (War Before Mine). It's at Ruthin Library and it's free! And then, the following Thursday, 12th March, there's VERSE AND VINO at
Nantclwyd y Dre House Ruthin. This one's limited to 16, so you'd need to book a place with Dee Rivaz (Dee.rivaz@googlemail.com) if you want to go.

So, we picked up a lot of ideas to improve our pitch when we embark on our Wirral-based event. I'll explain more on Friday.

I hope some of you managed to catch either or both of the radio performances over the last two Sundays; Cheryl and Barbara, Gordon and myself. I think it went well, and Marion was kind enough to give us a good plug after each story. I for one enjoyed the experience. Let's hope, if they do it again, they come back to us and some more of us will have the opportunity to have a go.

2009-02-22T12:59:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Cheryl and Barbara,
I think the presenter was more nervous than you, and there were times I thought the programme was going to disappear off air. Actually heard it via the web site as surprisingly the reception in Tranmere was dreadful on the radio.
I liked the tales that I believe I haven't heard before. Did you write them especially for the show?
I think they will have gone down well.
Chrisb

2009-02-14T09:26:00.000-08:00

Just thought you may like to know of a competition being run by "The University of Liverpool Creative Writing Society for Lifelong Learning" Quite a mouth full isn't it. This is the 3rd such comp and is called "The 3rd Annual Ted Walters International Short Story and Poetry Competition 2009" Another mouthful!
The competition is so called in memory of Ted Walters who died in 2006. As a writer he had work broadcast.
I have asked for some entry forms to be forwarded so hopefully I will have them for our next meeting on the 20th feb.
Chrisb

Getting the creative juices flowing!

2009-02-09T08:13:00.000-08:00

Along the Slippery Path

Not quite frozen R. Leat

You couldn't have loggerheads without a log!

After being cooped up because of bad weather, Peter and I set off for a walk this morning (just as well as it's both wet and foggy now!). We went to Loggerheads and trudged for miles through the snow. The idea was to clear the cobwebs away and hopefully put my brain in gear to tackle the rewrites on the novel.

Thought I'd share a few photos from this morning, it was peaceful and beautiful. Only trouble was, by the time we returned there wasn't time to enjoy a coffee in the new cafe there. Worth a visit if you're out that way. It's all home made/produced/organic, with no deep fat fryers any more!

Cheryl

This 'n that!

2009-02-08T01:32:00.000-08:00

After so many attempts to blog with the gremlins always preventing me, I'm trying again!
It was a good meeting, I thought, on Friday with a fascinating variety of manuscripts.
We only have one more meeting before we're off to Ruthin on the 28th. If anyone would like to join us for an hour or so and help man 'our' table, please let us know! Also, if anyone has any ideas on how we should present ourselves, get in touch!
The snow is still lying in the fields and gardens here, although the roads are fine. It's all very picturesque, but I'd much rather have bright sunshine, blue skies and heat!
Oh well, back to work!

Cheryl

2009-02-06T14:31:00.000-08:00

Vintage radio
Sorry I didn't have enough leaflets for everyone, but here's a recap on when it is being broadcast.
Aimed at the 50's plus and sponsored by Help the Aged it is being broadcast from Saturday 21st February until 1st March each day all day with a broad selection of programmes.
Tune into 87.7FM
Our own Ann Flynn is co-presenting a programme. (Ann has been on a course learning the ropes.) So along with Mike, Cheryl and Gordon reading their own short stories Wirral Writers will be well represented.
If you can't tune in, the programmes can be accessed by logging onto www.vintageradio.org.uk
Must say I enjoyed this evening and meeting up with everyone again. really nice to see Sarah and Joseph again after many months.
Chrisb

2009-01-25T08:02:00.000-08:00

A question of age?

What happened to those winter days
what put them all to flight
remember mornings crisp and clear
that followed starry night

Can you recall those icy times
the frozen window panes
those slides we made along the lane
so many snowy games

What fun those snowball fights we had
despite frost bitten hands
in soaking woollen Christmas gloves
a present from our Gran's

How things have changed since we were young
It's not that many years
And yet it seems the world's gone mad
with PC tears and fears

No sliding in the playground lads
no ball games are allowed
in case you fall and hurt yourselves
just stand and shout out loud

And girls your screaming's much improved
gets louder by the hour
I'm fed up with the kids today
or am I getting sour?

2009-01-24T11:30:00.000-08:00

thanks Mike I hope this message reaches the right place. I'm not at all certain that I am following the correct protocol. with a bit of luck will see you all at the next meeting.
Chris

Write Minds

2009-01-18T09:51:00.000-08:00

Wirral Writers will have a table at the Writers’ Fair, part of the Write Minds event at Nantclwyd y Dre, Castle Street, in Ruthin, on 28th February.

The event starts at 11:00 and there will be a number of talks by writers during the day. Day-pass tickets are £5 in advance (Ruthin Library 01824 705274) or can be purchased on the day (but access to all the talks cannot be guaranteed for on-the-day purchases).

We have a couple of meetings beforehand, so please come armed with plenty of ideas for attention-grabbing hand-outs and exhibition items.

I’ll have more info for you next meeting.

2009-01-17T00:44:00.000-08:00

Further to Frank’s quiz last night, what is a runcible spoon?
Apparently, it is an invented word. Edward Lear liked the sound of it and he loved to invent words, and used it in a number of his verses. There’s a runcible hat appearing in one of them.

But then, decades after his death, definitions began to appear in dictionaries. These days it’s often defined as kind of pickle fork with a sharpened edge and three tines, or as a grapefruit spoon.

But it’s nonsense, because when Lear invented the word (or any of his invented words) he never had any intentions of it actually meaning anything.

Anyway, as a matter of interest, here’s the full poem:

I

The Owl and the Pussy-cat went to sea

In a beautiful pea green boat,

They took some honey, and plenty of money,

Wrapped up in a five pound note.

The Owl looked up to the stars above,

And sang to a small guitar,'O lovely Pussy! O Pussy my love,

What a beautiful Pussy you are,

You are,

What a beautiful Pussy you are!'

II
Pussy said to the Owl, 'You elegant fowl!

How charmingly sweet you sing!

O let us be married! too long we have tarried:

But what shall we do for a ring?'

They sailed away, for a year and a day,

To the land where the Bong-tree grows

And there in a wood a Piggy-wig stood

With a ring at the end of his nose,

His nose,

With a ring at the end of his nose.

III
'Dear pig, are you willing to sell for one shilling

Your ring?'

Said the Piggy, 'I will.

'So they took it away, and were married next day

By the Turkey who lives on the hill.

They dined on mince, and slices of quince,

Which they ate with a runcible spoon;

And hand in hand, on the edge of the sand,

They danced by the light of the moon,

The moon,

They danced by the light of the moon.

Apologies

2009-01-16T07:56:00.000-08:00

Sadly, I have a chest infection at the moment so I can't make it tonight. Will bring a few treats with me for the next meeting (rather than just sharing my germs with you this time). Have a good time.

Love Elizabeth

Party Night Next Friday

2009-01-11T12:34:00.001-08:00

Just a reminder to everyone that next Friday (16th) is our Christmas Party night. (Okay, it's a bit late, but we're all writers - we have this innate aversion to deadlines.

So bring a small gift for the raffle, some food for the buffet, and be prepared for a killer quizz by yours truly.

If you have a seasonal story; something for mid-January (chronic debt might be a good theme at the moment) bring it along, we'd love to hear it.

Can't wait.

Mike

Happy New Year

2009-01-03T04:27:00.000-08:00

Best wishes to everyone this year and good luck with your writing!!!

Greetings

2008-12-27T08:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Christmas everyone!

Love

Elizabeth

P.S Has anyone worked out how to add word documents yet.

P.P.S Farewell Oliver Postgate and thanks for Noggin the Nog, Bagpuss, Poggles Wood, Ivor the Engine and my childhood.

Thanks Mr Postgate

2008-12-10T13:25:00.001-08:00

The Pogles were always my favourite.

News about Next Meeting

2008-12-10T11:35:00.000-08:00

I had a call, yesterday, from a lady named Marion who is interested in broadcasting a number of stories on community radio – it’s part of a course she is doing on radio broadcasting. She had been advised to seek out writers’ groups and so she found us.

She is looking for two or three short stories, of about 12/13 minutes. She will either read them out herself, or if the author prefers, he/she can read them on air.

She has a February deadline, so I asked if she would like to come along to our next meeting (2nd January) and make her pitch. I suggest we dig out our old stories, ex-Maynah Lewis comp entries, perhaps, or anything else we have in the pipeline or the recycle bin, and bring them along. She says we should be mindful of our audience, who are likely to be elderly, so not too much gore and profanity.

So – here is a chance to get your stories out there, to get your name bandied about, and it could be a bit of useful free publicity for the group. I think it’s an opportunity we don’t want to miss.

Thanks
Have a good Christmas.

Unoffical minutes (21/11/08)

2008-11-23T04:36:00.000-08:00

I met some folk the other night,
both cerebral and amusing.
We traded rhyme and coffee time,
in a manner most unbruising.

A brightly lit room, we slayed autumn's gloom
and duelled with words and meaning.
Then after a break, re-sharpened the stake
and did it once more, with feeling.

Round the planet in one night,
on a Wirral Line zone ticket.
Dodging Chinese mother-in-laws, poisoned soup, talking doors,
batting sibling rival's sticky wicket.

The Knights of the Horseshoe table returned from Kent,
chivalry unspent, but geography in defeat.
They reached Singapore, but will travel no more;
They only wanted Liverpool, James Street...

2008-11-15T06:53:00.001-08:00

WIRRAL WRITERS’ CLUB
(A pantoum or something like one)

We meet together on a Friday night
a group of cheerful scribblers all
who bring their words, profound or sleight
to please or tease, appal, enthral.

A group of cheerful scribblers all -
the Wirral Writers do their best
to please or tease, appal enthral
and always welcome every guest.

The Wirral Writers do their best
to pen some lines of prose and rhyme
and always welcome every guest
so why not join us - now’s the time

to pen some lines of prose and rhyme
concerning love or maybe spite.
so why not join us, now’s the time.
We meet together on a Friday night.

Crime Might Pay

2008-11-13T05:10:00.000-08:00

If you missed the AGM last week, we decided that our Maynah Lewis competition this year will mirror the theme for the Writers Magazine July competition, whatever that turns out to be.

Well, I've been rummaging around my magazine filing system (an old printer box I keep under my desk) and I have found the Competition Pull-out for 2009.

So, here it is... (pause for a drum roll and fanfare)

This year will be a Crime Story. "Anything from murder to parking on a yellow line."

More details will follow, but for the moment you can all be thinking about your summer crime spree.

And while we're on competitions - here's the theme for the October competition. We took this from one of the paintings at Brook Meadow during the summer meal. You need to work your magic on it in 500 words or less.

There's a long time to go on this one but it doen't do any harm to let your subconcious loose on it for a few months.

Who is the girl? Why is she sad? Why is she holding what appears to be a dead creature in her right hand?

Let's have some comments. Just click on the comments link to say what you think of the blog so far.

Remember you are all free to post something of your own on the site. If you have activated your membership you have joint authorship of the blog.

Welcome

2008-11-02T12:38:00.000-08:00

I have the honour of making the first post on Wirral Writers' members-only blog.
I'm hoping this will be a new way for members to share their thoughts, ideas, triumphs and moans.

The site will only be visible to our little Wirral Writers' community. Anyone in the club can post, so long as I have your email and can add you as a user, and anyone can comment on posts. I'm hoping we can use it for updates on club competitions, diary items, market news, and useful writerly resources. Anyone who wishes to post stories and poems can do so, and anyone who reads them may comment. This way we can share advice on grammar, layout and punctuation - things that are not always apparent from an oral reading.

And we want it to evolve! Any other ideas for using the site can be aired and discussed.

A full launch will take place at the AGM (in case you stumbled upon the site in advance) at which time I'll sound out opinions on whether this is something we are all happy to persue.

In the meantime - what are you doing messing around on the internet. YOU SHOULD BE WRITING!!

Mike