forWORDS writing group is investing £3320 from the Shared Prosperity Fund in a self-published anthology.
A LOCAL writing group is using more than £3000 awarded by the UK Government to publish a book of members’ work.
forWORDS – writers who meet from 7-9pm every Tuesday in the Green Room at Forres House Community Centre – are investing £3320 from the Shared Prosperity Fund in the anthology as well as a launch event.
Treasurer Tez Watson explained the group planned to print 500 copies but have extended this to 600 to distribute extra books free of charge to readers who might otherwise struggle to access local work.
He said: “We’re pretty chuffed at being given this funding!
“Fourteen of our members have submitted numerous short stories and poetry, with the loosely interpreted focus being Forres and the surrounding area.
“We aren't certain of the page count as yet but it'll be a paperback with covers by a local artist.”
forWORDS aim to have the collection laid out, printed and delivered in time for Scottish Week at the start of June.
The editing and selection work was undertaken by chairwoman Patricia O'Shea and former secretary Andy Allan over recent months.
Tez will complete the layout design before it is shipped off for printing and finishing.
forWORDS is open to all adults, offering critique and feedback, writing workshops, guest speakers, improvement exercises and more.
During an average group meeting, there are introductions, news items then activities.
“We've been bolstered by an influx of new members since Covid,” added Tez. “We now have about 18 members.
“The anthology is an exciting project for a small group like ours. Most of the group have never had work published before!”
For more information email andy@aeallan.com or attend in person.
