A NEW Writing Group aims to provide inspiration, encouragement and support to wordsmiths in and around the Valley.
The Barnard Castle Writers Group has been embraced by Teesdale-based screenwriters, aspiring novelists, short story writers, playwrights, poets and bloggers since its launch earlier this month.
Karina Hofman, who teaches creative writing at the University of Greenland, said: “I had Lisa [Frideborg] to put a message on the Facebook group asking if anyone was interested in a writing group and there were quite a few people interested.
Over 28 people signed up for the social media group in three days and the inaugural meetings took place last week at Andalucia Café.
Ms Hofman added: “Not everyone is looking to get published, but it is something to talk about.
“It’s really about meeting like-minded people, who are interested in the same thing.”
Meeting times and dates will remain flexible to suit members, but there are already plans for trips to inspiring locations in the Valley to get the creative juices flowing.
She said: “I think we have a lot to offer a lot of people when they are here. It will be a great place to exchange ideas and advise each other.
Lisa Frideborg, from Cotherstone, who has been blogging for 16 years, said: “I find it inspiring that we have all come together.”
Two other meeting dates were penciled into the diary, both at Andalucia Café, Galgate.
Anyone interested in attending should visit The Barnard Castle Writers social media page at https://www.facebook. com/groups/330696475627926 or email thebarnardcastlewrit ers@gmail.com.
Next meeting on Saturday February 26 at 2 p.m.
Another is scheduled for Tuesday, March 1 at 2 p.m. where a topic of discussion will be writing routines.