INSPIRING writers and book fans are invited to the Thurrock Writers Festival.

The event will take place on Saturday 29 October at Grays Library and is run by Thurrock Council’s Library service.

There are three workshops sharing ideas, experience and tips on the journey of: being a writer, how to write and how to get your book promoted.

Visitors to the event will join authors Sue Wilsher, Virginia Heath as well as Diane M Hinds from The Entertainment Company.

Sue Wilsher, from East Tilbury, has just had her first book published ‘When my ship comes in’ an historical saga set in Tilbury and is part of a two book deal with well-known publisher Little, Brown.

Her workshop “Journey of a debut author: from process to publication” describes how she got where she is and offers inspiration to those who want to write and be published.

Virginia Heath writes for Mills and Boon and aims to encourage people to keep writing but also to keep the reader hooked in carrying on reading the story. Her workshop “Hook, line and don’t sink” offers lots of encouragement and experience.

Finally, Diane M Hinds has over 20 years of experience as a freelance PR specialist. She began her career with Arista Records and then went freelance, launching the career of opera singer Lesley Garrett CBE.

Her workshop “Promoting your book” is aimed at aspiring writers, whether promoting a book, blog or short story this will help you to put together your own basic campaign.

Sue MacPherson, councillor for neighbourhoods is delighted that Thurrock people are being encouraged to take up writing.

She said: “This is a great opportunity for Thurrock – it is never too late or early to pick up a pen and write your own story and with such inspirational workshops – there isn’t a better time to start.”

Tickets are £3 each and there is a discount if all three workshops are booked bringing a morning’s creativity to just £7.00. Tickets are available from Grays library or by visiting the website at thurrock.gov.uk/events