Our winning writers will take the stage as we launch this year’s festival, a relaxed, welcoming afternoon where you can hear their work, meet fellow readers and writers, and be part of the very first moments of LitOct 2026.

Free entry

Under 18s: 14:00–15:30

Over 18s: 16:00–18:00

Come and celebrate the stories that begin our festival.

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The 17th century Japanese haiku poet Basho said ,’each day is a journey, the journey itself home.’ This two hour  workshop will focus on 200 years of railway journeys, sharing mainstream poems on that theme and exploring how haibun can write in a different way about this way of travelling which is maybe better.

Diana Webb is an award winning haibun writer who has been this year’s judge for the British Haiku Society haibun awards. ‘the novelty of novello’ published this year by Alba publishing is her ninth collection of haibun available from her for £12 plus £2 postage. One testimonial says ‘her unique and intricate haibun never fail to impress’

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Participants are invited to bring along a small object of personal significance – something ordinary, sentimental, forgotten, or quietly meaningful. Through guided prompts, shared reading, and supported writing time, the workshop explores how everyday objects can unlock memory, emotion, and story, and how small moments often carry the biggest feelings.

There’s no pressure to share and no expectation of prior writing experience. Jaspreet creates a warm, supportive space that encourages curiosity, reflection, and connection through words.

Ideal for first-time writers, returning poets, and anyone curious about how poetry can grow from the details of everyday life.

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Samantha’s book – The Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps in France 1917 – 1921, published by Pen and Sword Books, will be available to purchase at the event.

The post The Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps in France 1917- 1921 appeared first on Southlands Arts Centre.

Life rarely stands still. Whether you’ve changed jobs, retired, moved home, welcomed a new baby, experienced bereavement, watched children leave the nest, or are navigating any other major shift, transitions can stir up complex emotions.

This gentle, supportive workshop with Jo Eastop offers space to explore those feelings through short, accessible writing activities designed to promote wellbeing. No writing experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to pause and reflect.

Research by Pennebaker & Evans suggests that ‘writing seems beneficial when you are trying to make sense of an event you don’t yet understand.’

Through guided exercises, you’ll discover how writing about emotional experiences can help you process change and find clarity.

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This 40 minute session will include story-telling, spell-making, Halloween crafts and the chance to get books dedicated and signed by the author. Expect mischief, mayhem and cackles aplenty!

A cosy seasonal treat for families looking for gently Halloween fun.

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