I was part of the ‘Starting to Write’ course at The Hurst in May of 2006. Without exaggeration I had an incredible week and explored areas of my writing that I hadn’t yet considered. I was really anxious about spending a week isolated in the rolling hills of Shropshire. However, the centre directors Kerry and Peter (and Pearl) were so warm with their welcome that they had me at ease within seconds.

Alicia Stubbersfield and Jim Friel were exceptional in their support and honesty. The balance between prose and poetry workshops worked perfectly. I for one had shied away from poetry in the past- the idea of it brought back memories of dreadful English lessons- yet throughout the week I explored poetry and have since been developing my love and appreciation of reading and writing it.

The surroundings at the Hurst are exquisite with beautiful walks and a myriad of places for reading, meditation and, of course, writing.

Evening meals are an integral part of the whole experience, as a group we cooked and ate together and as a result I’ve made new friends and contacts. They continue to encourage me having returned to the harsh realities of everyday life!

As a teacher with limited finances I would not have been able to experience this inspiring week without the support of the Arvon Foundation- hopefully, soon, I will be able to show my appreciation and support.

1. Michelle Jana Chan
2. Raj Kulkarni
3. Kamlesh Gupta
4. Alice Nutter
5. Colin Bell