The Alverstoke Gypsy -- a Creative Writing Historical Archive Workshop

We'll be taking a writerly look at unpublished archive material about a strange set of circumstances that happened in and around Alverstoke. T'Articulation's Amanda Garrie will share archive material relating to an enigmatic woman who arrives in Alverstoke, dividing public opinion from that of authority. Participants will have opportunities to examine the various perspectives of witnesses at the time, using them to inform pieces of poetry or prose, before learning the truth about 'The Alverstoke Gypsy' and how it unfolded. The unpublished materials were uncovered by Amanda Garrie during her tenure as the PCC Library and Archive Service Poet in Residence (2019). This workshop is designed for writers of all abilities, but will also be relevant to those with an interest in local history, especially regarding the way women 'of no fixed abode' might be treated. Please bring a pencil to write with, as pens are not allowed in this area of the library. Large bags, food and drink (including water) must be left in a nearby locker -- so please ask for a key at the desk. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Amanda is a retired lecturer in Creative Writing at the University of Portsmouth and was previously an English, History, and Media teacher in mainstream schools. She is the Lead Co-ordinator for T'Articulation, Portsmouth's spoken word troupe.