Book lovers of all ages are being invited to celebrate the area’s thriving literary talent at one of the largest gatherings of writers ever hosted in Hartlepool.
Organised by Hartlepool Borough Council, the Hartlepool Author Showcase will take place in Community Hub Central in York Road on Saturday 24 October from 10am to 1pm and will bring together 31 authors from Hartlepool and across the Tees Valley for a packed programme of activities.
The event will feature author panels, book signings, book sales, creative workshops, children's storytelling sessions and crafts, zine-making activities and creative writing drop-ins. Visitors will also have the chance to enter a free prize draw to win a book basket.
The event is free, no booking is required and the activities are suitable for all ages.
The authors attending are Alan Pilkington, Beryl Robinson, C. J. Grayson, Claire L. W., Daniel Wright, Daryl Henson, David Ryan, Demelza D'Hotel, Fiona Erskine, Gail Waterhouse, Geoffrey Chapman, Harry Man, Helen Haynes, James Wilson, Joseph Arabi, Lin Fidgin, Linda Dooks, L. M. Milford, Lorraine Booth-Smith, Max Wrigley, Michael Booth, Mike Edwards, Polly Ludgate, Quentin Cope, Rachel Robinson, Rob Taylor, Ronald Craig Richardson, Sharon Birch, Terri Corbett, Tim Prescott and Tony Stamp.
They represent a diverse range of genres including adult fiction, non-fiction, poetry, young adult fiction and children's novels.
Councillor Rob Darby, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council's Housing, Growth and Communities Committee, said: “The Hartlepool Author Showcase is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the wealth of literary talent we have here in Hartlepool and across the wider Tees Valley.
"Bringing together more than 30 authors for what promises to be a vibrant and engaging event is a tremendous achievement, and we are delighted to be hosting it at Community Hub Central.
"Whether you're an enthusiastic reader, an aspiring writer or simply looking for a fun and inspiring day out with the family, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
"We are committed to supporting creativity, literacy, learning and culture within our communities, and this event will shine a spotlight on the talented authors whose work enriches us.
"I would encourage people of all ages to come along, meet the writers, take part in the activities and discover something new."