Be inspired and informed at this Leeds writers' festival

Professor Oz Hardwick and Chancellor Debbie McAndrew of Leeds Trinity University at last year's event

An annual writers’ festival will bring together aspiring authors, poets and creative minds with professionals for workshops, recitals and more in Leeds.

Leeds Trinity University’s Writers’ Festival returns on March 17, with a whole host of talent expected to attend.

Children’s author, primary teacher and Leeds Trinity alumna Jane Browne will deliver her workshop on climate fiction.

Jane’s published children’s trilogy, The Earth Chronicles, follows the adventures of 13-year-old Hannah, who is tasked with saving her family as well as Gaia, the mother of all nature. The final instalment, Hollow’s End, will be published in the autumn.

Jane said: “Literature so often reflects a truth back at us, so we see life how it really is with all its imperfections, beauties and intricacies. Stories heighten our emotions and spark imagination, and my workshop will explore how we can channel those emotions and use creativity to chart a new path through this man-made catastrophe we face.”

Professor Oz Hardwick, award-winning poet and principal lecturer in English at Leeds Trinity, said: “What never ceases to amaze me is that, even after all these years, I still come away from the day buzzing with different ideas myself.”

Tickets for the festival cost £15 and are free for Trinity staff, students and alumni.