The Llangwmlitfest has inspired a lot of people to unlock the riches of memory and put pen to paper.

This year is no exception, says Michael Pugh, director of the Llangwm Literary Festival.

The festival organisers are delighted to be showcasing a book written by villager, Kevin Evans, and illustrated by the renowned Fran Evans (no relation). Kevin’s book ‘My River’ is a collection of stories starting with Kevin’s childhood on the Cleddau.

Kevin Evans
Kevin Evans (Pic supplied)

Michael said: “It is beautifully written and testament to a special and disappearing world. We are really proud to be offering it and the support from the village has been tremendous.“

For those who’d like to delve into the natural history of the Cleddau, Dale Fort’s Dr Steve Morrell is leading an exploration of the shore at Black Tar.

Moving a little further afield, Llangwm (which sometimes feels more like a creative university campus than a village) is hosting writer David Moore, to shed light on the “somewhat overlooked, but utterly brilliant” Welsh woman artist, Ray Howard-Jones. Hot off the press, the book contains a vast array of Jones’ beautiful seascapes from around Marloes and Skomer, as well as well-crafted text to shed light on the work of a pioneering and talented artist.

Ray Howard-Jones: My Hand is the Voice of the Sea, book by David Moore
Ray Howard-Jones: My Hand is the Voice of the Sea, book by David Moore (Pic supplied)

For those who prefer to go back even further in time, the festival welcomes Dr Lloyd Bowen from Cardiff University to talk about Pembrokeshire 350 years ago. Lloyd will be sharing his book ‘John Poyer, the Civil Wars in Pembrokeshire and the British Revolutions’.

John Poyer, the Civil Wars in Pembrokeshire and the British Revolutions by Dr Lloyd Bowen
John Poyer, the Civil Wars in Pembrokeshire and the British Revolutions by Dr Lloyd Bowen (Pic supplied)

Moreover, acclaimed and prolific Tenby writer, Judith Barrow, will be hosting a session for those who are just starting writing, or even just thinking about it, in which people can talk about their work and share the secrets of success.

In addition, there will be fun for all the family, poetry, music, books galore, art, events for children, foraging and lots more.

The Llangwm Literary Festival takes place between August 11 and 13, 2023 in Llangwm. For more information on the festival, contact [email protected], or visit www.llangwmlitfest.co.uk