AN afternoon dedicated to the celebration of books, writing and reading, Crediton Literary Festival 2018, took place at Crediton Library on Saturday, June 16.

The brand new festival was formally opened by the Mayor of Crediton, Councillor Frank Letch.

Devon-based authors from the Exeter Authors’ Association shared their work in a series of "On the Sofa with..."

The festival also included presentations, writing surgeries, a free book draw, a chance to chat to authors about all aspects of writing and publishing, free cupcakes to enjoy while perusing the wide variety of books available for sale and there was also the announcement of the winner of the event’s first short story competition, which was sponsored by Yellow Mouse Studios.

The winner of the Over 18 short story competition was Bruce Evans of Grape and Grain Wine Merchants.

His daughter, Elena, was a runner-up in the Under 18’s writing competition.

The talks included: The Medieval Murderers with Karen Maitland and Michael Jecks; Folklore and Witchcraft featuring Tracey and Mark Norman; Exploring fantasy worlds by Richard Dee and P J Reed; Wicked Crime and Deadly Diseases with J E Hall and Susie Grogan; Memoirs of a Royal photographer by Richard Lappas and Poetry from the pens of Jeni Braund and Brian Willis.

The festival was so successful that it is hoped that it will become an annual town event.

Alan Quick