The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Villagers hope Hoolie will have write stuff
Tourism: Literary event aimed at booking in Mallaig visitors
A West Highland village is hoping its first ever book festival will attract a big influx of visitors after the end of the busy summer season.
The Write Highland Hoolie will take place in The West Highland Hotel at Mallaig in Lochaber from October 21-23.
Author and photographer Polly Pullar, who is one of the organisers, explained that theeventcame about as the result of a chance meeting between herself and Sine Davis of the West Highland Hotel.
Ms Davis, who was in the process of upgrading the hotel, said she would like to hold an event that would not only bring visitors to Mallaig later in the year, but also benefit the area as a whole.
AndMs Pullar, who grew up in Ardnamurchan, suggested a small book festival.
Shortly afterwards the pair, together with Deirdre Roberts, wife of renowned author Alasdair Roberts, andWestWord editor Ann Martin, set up a committee and started planning the area’s first literary festival.
Ms Pullar said: “We have put together an exciting programme with a fabulous mix of authors and events for all ages.
“During the evenings, music will be provided by talented duo Elsa JeanMcTaggart and her husband Gary Lister, and there are rumours that some authors and visitors are also bringing instruments. It will matter not if the climate hurls abuse at us, for all will be held under one roof.”
The event begins with a pre- dinner celebration reception to launch Angus MacDonald’s debut novel – Ardnish was Home.
Other authors taking part include Jim Crumley, Camille Dressler, Debi G liori , Sue Lawrence, John Love, Donald S. Murray, Sam Morshead, Stuart Murray, Polly Pullar, Alasdair Roberts, Michael F Russell and Jess Smith.
A wide range of books will be on sale, including signed copies of books by participating authors, and there will be a second-hand bookstall with proceeds going to charity.
Children’s events will include regular appearances of Bookbug and stories, rhymes, songs and readings for pre-school children and their parents.
Ms Pullar said: “Books are one of the most important aspects of life, and reading is the ultimate joy.”
And she stressed that everyone was welcome to attend The Write Highland Hoolie.