Chapter One Narberth is excited to be starting a new Young Writers' Group.

The group, which will run for six weeks initially, is aimed at young people aged 14 to 17 years old who have an interest in creative writing. The group will offer them the support and encouragement to write as well as developing their skills.

The group will first meet from Wednesday, September 16 from 5.30 to 7pm.

Led by local author Lottie Williams, who published her debut essay collection, The Edge of Everything, last year, the group will explore a variety of forms and genres, play with words, images, meaning and energy, whilst always being aware that writing is a mindful activity that can boost wellbeing.

Lottie encourages those interested in writing to come along, stating: “Whether you are just starting out on your writing journey, or have been writing for a while, you are welcome. Our group will be friendly, supportive, inclusive, varied and engaging. See you there!”

The group came about when a mum and her teenage daughter made enquiries about writing groups at the bookshop and talked about how there was a lack of provision locally for young people interested in writing.

The manager, Lorna, remembered her own experiences living far away from cultural hubs like Cardiff and London and lacking access to activities to develop as a writer, and got to work.

She said: “It's so important that young people in rural areas have the same access to cultural experiences that those living in cities and large towns do. Without support and encouragement, young people may struggle to see a future for themselves as writers and we hope this group will help fill that gap.”

Funding for the group has been provided by Literature Wales and without this, Lorna says, it wouldn't have happened.

“We are so grateful to Literature Wales and their Inspiring Communities Fund for their support. Without their crucial funding we wouldn't be able to provide such an important service,” she continued.

Lottie Williams is an award winning writer and writing practitioner. She has worked with charities, social enterprises, schools and private groups across West Wales, holding knowledge and experience from training with the Literature Wales Sgwennu Well | Writing Well programme, an MA in Creative Writing, and as an English teacher.

Her debut book, The Edge of Everything was released last year. As winner of the Nigel Jenkins Literary Award, and a Pushcart Prize nominee, her writing is published in print and online, including Modron, Firewords and Nation.Cymru.Places are £10 per session.

Those interested are welcome to book for one session at a time or multiple sessions. If you’d like to book for the whole course, please select five tickets and you’ll automatically get the sixth for free.

Tickets are £5 and can be booked via the Chapter One website www.narberthmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/

If cost is a barrier, there are three free places to offer on a first come, first served basis.

Please contact Lorna at [email protected] to request one of these places.