A popular series of creative workshops, led by a popular local writer, are to return to the north of the island later this month.

Regular ’Creative Writing for wellbeing’ sessions will take place at the Jurby Community Centre over the next 12 months, led by the writer, poet and photographer Janet Lees.

The workshops, backed by the Isle of Man Arts Council, follow the success of an initial series of creative writing workshops which took place at the centre throughout last autumn.

Angela Quaggin, Centre Coordinator for Jurby and Northern Community Initiatives, said that they were persuaded to continue with the course, and extend them over a longer period of time after the autumn classes proved so popular.

’We were delighted with the complaints received following our first creative writing for wellbeing sessions last autumn, as the people who’d been attending were unhappy that the sessions had come to an end and strongly expressed a wish for more,’ said Angela.

’Jurby and Northern Community Initiatives are very glad to be able to address these complaints, and we’re so pleased that Janet is coming back to Jurby Community Centre.

’We have no doubts that last year’s participants will be keen to make a return, and any and all new faces will be made to feel most welcome.

’These sessions are suitable for anyone,’ she added.

’No previous experience of writing is needed and complete beginners are especially welcome.’

Angela said that the two-hour sessions feature simple creative writing exercises and fun activities designed to help people express themselves, discover a fresh outlook, have fun with words and make new friends.

The sessions will run at intervals throughout the year, from 10.30am to 12.30pm, with the first two, on Friday March 22 and 29, 10.30am to 12.30pm.

To book your place or find out more, call Janet Lees on 470941 or email [email protected]

To get involved or find out more about Jurby and Northern Community Initiatives, get in touch with Angela Quaggin on 331794 or email [email protected].

More details about the Jurby Community Centre are available on the Jurby and Northern Community Facebook page.