Traces of the Past: Writing Inspired by the History of the Blackdown Hills

A welcoming creative writing workshop with novelist Vanessa de Haan, inspired by Blackdown Hills history. Join Vanessa da Haan for a writing workshop for all abilities, with an emphasis on providing a welcoming environment to stimulate some creativity. Please note • The workshop will take place at a rural venue between Hemyock and Churchstanton. Exact location details and directions will be provided after booking. • The Blackdown Hills National Landscape vehicle will be travelling from Hemyock and is able to offer lifts to and from the venue. If you would like to discuss transport options, please get in touch. Tel: 01392 383600 Email: [email protected] The Blackdown Hills are rich in history – with evidence of ironworks and medieval farming systems, Norman castles, beacons warning of the Spanish Armada, hiding places for Monmouth rebels, as well as WWII airfields. Whether you’re interested in fiction or non-fiction, this session will look at techniques to make the past come alive. We will start by taking a short walk around a traditional farm, imagining who might have lived in or visited this area of the Blackdown Hills as we tread in their footsteps. Then we will sit under cover (outside or inside, weather dependent!) while we look at some of the objects we have found since moving here – a hammered silver coin and a harvest mouse’s nest, a piece of an old hay wagon and a rusty old horseshoe. Finally we will have a go at a couple of writing exercises, with a chance to share in public or private or not at all! Who is it for? This is for all levels of experience – whether you’re simply keen to try something different, or a seasoned writer who wants to delve into history – this is about the fun of using our imaginations to see through the eyes of others – whether they be the people who lived before us or the trees that still watch over us. What to bring All you need to bring is paper, a pen, and an open mind, ready to let the past mingle with the present (and suitable footwear for a gentle walk, although it is also possible for those with mobility issues to remain seated while others walk). About Vanessa de Haan Vanessa de Haan is an author of historical fiction, who has published two novels with HarperCollins – The Restless Sea, and A Time to Live. She is currently working on her third novel, about raiders on the England–Scotland border in Tudor times – in no way inspired by her life on the Devon–Somerset border in the Blackdown Hills. Booking is essential This event is part of the Blackdown Hills National Landscape Festival of Heritage.