New literary festival inspired by Perth poet William Soutar

A new literary festival celebrating contemporary Scottish culture is coming to Perth.

The Soutar Festival of Words – inspired by local poet William Soutar – will take place at venues and outdoor locations across the Fair City in April.

Organisers have lined up more than 20 events, with highlights including author talks, a poetry slam, an open mic session, traditional Scottish music and opportunities for people to gain an insight into the world of creative writing.

The festival, organised by the charitable trust Culture Perth and Kinross, will also include walking tours inspired by books, stories and local legends.

Kicking off the weekend on Friday April 26, crime writers Denzil Meyrick, Neil Broadfoot and Douglas Skelton will take part in a Q&A panel at Perth Museum and Art Gallery.

There will also be a poetry walk through Perth landmark Buckie Braes with Perthshire poet Jen Cooper. Authors Ajay Close, Susi Briggs and Alex Gray will host events throughout day two.

Award-winning author Bernard MacLaverty will also make an appearance, 40 years on from the release of his first book.

Regarded as one of Ireland’s greatest living writers, he will be at the Soutar Theatre in the AK Bell Library at the headline event on Saturday April 27.

On Sunday, the festival will celebrate emerging talent with a visit from three of Scotland’s newest and most exciting writers: Conner McAleese, Tracey Emerson and Liz MacWhirter.

The trio aim to give inspiration to anyone who is thinking about writing or publishing a book for the first time.

The festival will draw to a close with a performance from Perth chamber choir Chansons in St John’s Kirk.

The Soutar Festival of Words is supported by the Friends of William Soutar, the Jimmie Cairncross Trust and the Forteviot Trust.