If you aspire to be a writer, then it may be useful to join a group of like-minded people who can offer advice and support. These independently-run groups meet regularly in Swindon.

Footsteps Writers' Group

This group meets at the Richard Jefferies House and Museum on the second Wednesday of the month - 10.30am-3.30pm.

In their own words: "We are a friendly group of writers in the Swindon area, interested in prose and poetry, and meeting informally to discuss our writing, share new work and support each other.

"We welcome anyone who wants to improve their writing: new writers, old hands and published poets. Come when you can, stay as long as you like."

In 2007, the group published their own book of poems called Mulberry Moods.

Meetings Format

The group usually has around six to ten people at each meeting, so everyone gets a chance to:

• Discuss literary activities in which they have been involved
• Read short extracts from their own or other favourite works
• Receive helpful comments about style, structure and content
• Get ideas on how to improve their own work for publication
• Swap news about upcoming literary events

Cost

A small donation (50p per session) is charged to cover the cost of refreshments.

How To Join

Please contact:

Mick Gilford
Tel: 01488 71653
E-mail: mick@bluegatepoets.com

Alternatively, please just turn up on the day.

Writers' Cafe

Time, place and permission to be inspired!

Contemplate and create; read and write, simply experience sharing good practice.

Held on the last Thursday of each month at Lower Shaw Farm - drop in 6.00pm-10.00pm.

Poetry Library

Books and contemporary magazines:

• Haiku Quarterly
• Magma
• Ambit
• Rialto
• Pulsar

Meet - Talk - Eat - Write!

During the evening (6.00pm-8.00pm) take the opportunity to meet other writers, share in an impromptu meal, get comment and feedback on your work, browse the library or just take time to sit and write.

Who You Will Meet

Typically between eight and twelve people with a wide range of writing experience and interests, from neophyte novelists to published poets, from beginners to those who have been writing for decades.

Open Reading Time

During the evening (8.00pm-10.00pm), bring your own work to share and read out for about five to ten minutes.

This isn't compulsory, you can just sit and listen or bring a favourite piece of writing to share.

The Expresso

After each meeting, contributors to the open reading are invited to submit their work for publication in the Expresso - a monthly broadsheet that is e-mailed to all members.

Venue

Lower Shaw Farm
Old Shaw Lane
Swindon
SN5 5PJ

Cost

£2 each evening.

Contact

To discuss and/or confirm attendance please contact:

John Richardson
Tel: 01793 731263
E-mail: jaywarr@mac.com

Tony Hillier
Tel: 01793 346440
E-mail: tonyhillier@ntlworld.com