Olympian & national treasure – Opens the festival...your help would be greatly received. The...

ARTS &CULTURE

COMEDY

A celebration of Arts, Culture and Literature

POETRY

ENTERTAINMENT

Official Programme of Events

Eddie the Eagle in 1986. Photograph: Steve Wood/Rex Features

Olympian & national treasure – Opens the festival

WellingtonFestival 2016

Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards

All events admission FREE ticketed for capacity purposes

www.wellingtonartsfest.co.uk T: 01952 567697 l@litfest2016

WREKIN COLLEGE the OLD HALL SCHOOL

DISCOVER

www.wrekincollege.com www.oldhall.co.uk І

The Old Hall School for boys and girls aged 4 - 11 E: [email protected] T: 01952 223117Wrekin College co-educational 11 - 18 day and boarding E: [email protected] T: 01952 265603

www.wellingtonartsfest.co.uk 3T: 01952 567697 l@litfest2016

We are delighted to launch the 2016 Wellington Festival – a spectacular three week celebration of arts and culture. The Festival takes place in the vibrant market town of Wellington, Shropshire and aims to showcase artistes of local, national and international renown.

After the great success of last year’s Festival, we have been working throughout the winter to put together an amazing programme of events and activities for the whole family.

In celebration of its 20th Anniversary, the Festival promises a fantastic line up of comedy, photography, dance, culture and all aspects of literature including travel writing workshops, poetry and performance writing. We hope that you are inspired to have a go at some of the workshops on offer: try something new, visit more places on your doorstep, bring family and friends and encourage tourists and visitors to discover all that Wellington has to offer.

Opening the Festival will be the Olympian (and national treasure) – Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards – who will be talking about his escapades as he became the

first competitor to represent Great Britain in Olympic ski jumping

in 1988. This year, his story was told in the biographical film Eddie the Eagle, starring Hugh Jackman, which showed his perseverance and achievements, all without funding.

The following day will see a Comedy Club night with the award winning and nationally acclaimed comedian Hannah Sylvester, ‘English Comedian of the year 2016’ Josh Pugh and four further acts who have been delighting audiences across the country with their observational insight and cutting satire; this will be an evening to savour. Another major highlight of this year’s programme is our guest Tom Watt, who was the Ghost Writer for David Beckham’s biography. He is also an actor, broadcaster and film maker and he returns to the Festival following a successful appearance in 2015.

These are just a few of the unique experiences that the Wellington Festival has to offer and all are FREE of charge. To bring a varied, high quality and entertaining mix of performers to our town every year is a notable achievement, but we could not do it alone. Wellington Town Council, sponsors, advertisers and loyal audiences all contribute to the Festival’s continuing success and on behalf of the Committee, I would like to thank them for their invaluable support.

As the proud hosts of what is now one of the foremost free-access Festivals of its kind in the West Midlands, we encourage you to spread the word through either shouting it from the roof-tops or sharing it on Facebook and Twitter! So, please read on to find out what is taking place and do not delay in getting your tickets. Also, please keep in touch via the website, Facebook, Twitter or face to face.

We look forward to seeing you at the Festival’s events and enjoying all that our fantastic town, Wellington, has to offer.

Welcome and Forewordby Cllr Cindy Mason-Morris Chair of the Wellington Festival Committee

4 Wellington Festival events are FREE – See programme overview page 8 and back cover for venues

On behalf of Wellington Town Council, may I welcome you to our 20th Festival.

Those more observant amongst you will notice I have missed out the word LITERARY.

This is because our Committee under its new Chair Councillor Cindy Mason-Morris has chosen to expand further in the field of the Arts and Culture and provide a far more diverse programme to encompass that aim.

I should at this stage pay tribute to our retiring Chair Councillor Pat Fairclough for the excellent way in which she has led the committee over the last 10 years.

Special thanks must go to our event ’s organiser Caroline Mulvihill for her hard work all year round in the preparation of this schedule.

We have an excellent p ro g ra m m e , s o please join me and let ’s enjoy these events thoroughly.

To attend any of the festival events please reserve your seat via www.wellingtonartsfest.co.uk. We use the eventbrite ticketing system so that we can gauge audience attendance levels.

All our events are all FREE. If you do not have internet access you can still simply turn up on the evening of the event but we would encourage you to pre-book to avoid disappointment.

If you would like a ticket again please visit www.eventbrite.co.uk If you are unable to do so please call 01952 567696, email [email protected] or pop into Wellington Town Council’s Civic Offices on Larkin Way, Tan Bank, Wellington TF1 1LX and a ticket can be obtained on your behalf.

Mayor of Wellington

Councillor Phil Morris-Jones MBE

Important InformationAbout attending an eventAll of the Wellington Festival events are FREE, associated independent events carry a small charge.

If you have a business that you would like to promote, advertising space in next years programme is available at a minimum cost.

Remembrance Service

Fri 11 NovRemembrance Parade Sun 13 NovSwitching on of Christmas Lights and Victorian Market Sat 26 NovCarols in the Square Sat 17 Dec


Twenty years ago, Wellington Town Council formed a working group of literary-minded people who initiated the first week of literary events, headed by Simon Brett the crime writer.

Guiding principles were agreed by the group which were as follows:

− To promote a wide range of literature to all ages; − To encourage local budding authors/playwrights/poets by providing a platform for their work;

− To be accessible to all; − To work in partnership with all sections of the community.

The Council agreed to give administrative and financial support and that all events should be FREE of charge unless organised by an outside body. After time, demand to extend the Festival grew culminating in the current format of three weeks of planned events throughout the month of October. In 2016, the Festival has been re-branded and extended, to increase the audience and to appeal to a more diverse range of people.

It has been our great pleasure to welcome the following personalities in past years: Kate Adie MBE, Martin Bell MBE , Henry Blofeld, Colin Dexter, poet laureate Andrew Motion, Ned Sherrin CBE, The Rt. Hon David Blunkett MP, poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy, George Alagiah, Germaine Greer, Alexie Sayle, Fay Weldon and Ian McMillan. These are all but a few of the well-known authors/artistes who have enthralled packed audiences with their literary prowess over the years.

The Wellington Festival Committee consists of the following volunteers:

Chair: Councillor Cindy Mason-Morris,

Deputy Chair: Councillor John Alvey,

Councillors: Joan Gorse, Sherrel Fikeis, Pat Fairclough, Denis Allen, Phil Morris-Jones and Ralph Perkins. Richard Bifield, Mollie Bolt, Kevin Tanner, Rev John Grice, Annie Savage, John and Joy Clayton, Geoff Harrison, John Sweetland, Howard Perkins, Fay Easton and Rebecca Dove.

Communication and Events Manager: Caroline Mulvihill – who also manages the Festival and keeps the Committee focused.

It was with deep regret that we lost two of our long-standing and most valued Committee Members over the last year – Mr Chris Lewis and Mr Alan Cooper. Both Chris and Alan were instrumental in the Festival being expanded to appeal to a greater range of people and they have been sadly missed.

Finally, the Committee welcomes new members and if you would like to get involved, in any capacity, please email [email protected] or write or call into Wellington Town Council’s Civic Offices on Larkin Way, Tan Bank, Wellington, TF1 1LX.

Wellington Town CouncilCelebrates its 20th Literary Festival by expanding into The Wellington Festival!

Remembrance Service

Fri 11 NovRemembrance Parade Sun 13 NovSwitching on of Christmas Lights and Victorian Market Sat 26 NovCarols in the Square Sat 17 Dec


The Wellington Festival is largely run by volunteers and enthusiasts. We rely on funding from Wellington Town Council and public donations.

The Festival Committee is always looking for extra volunteers to assist with the smooth running of the events.

To find out more please contact: [email protected] or call 01952 567696.

Become a friendIf you would like to get actively involved with the Festival, your help would be greatly received.

The Wellington Festival Committee wish to thank the following, in no particular order, for the constant support and loan of venues each year, without which the Wellington Festival would not take place.

Our dedicated website, www.wellingtonartsfest.co.uk, has been created and maintained by a local Wellington man – Martyn Haynes – on a purely voluntary basis. Our sincere thanks go to him for all his hard word.

Acknowledgements

Music, a new string to the Festival’s bow this year, was co-ordinated with the help of Joanna Deacon for which we are very grateful.

Special thanks must go to:Wrekin College, The Old Orleton, Wellington Library, The Telford Arena and Live Lounge, All Saints Church, Wellington Methodist Church, New College Telford, The Old Wrekin Tap, The Pheasant, The Belmont Hall, The Belfrey Theatre and Wellington Register Office. Thanks also to the Shropshire Star; Telford FM; Beacon Radio and BBC Radio Shropshire for the generous time and space allocated to help promote the Festival events. Thanks too, to the many traders throughout Wellington and Telford, who have distributed the Festival programme so consistently throughout the summer and early autumn months.

You have all helped communicate the message and we will be forever grateful.

Thanks to TELFORD TOILETS for supplying disabled toilet facilities at the The Telford Arena and Live Lounge.

www.telfordtoilets.comPhone: 01952 613436E-mail: [email protected]

WELLINGTON WALKING FESTIVALMonday 12th – Sunday 18th September 2016

The week long festival comprises 27 events plus a photographic competition.

Themed walks include Geology of the area around Little Wenlock on Tuesday 13th; Nordic Walking on The Wrekin on Wednesday 14th; Industrial Archaeology visiting Limekiln Woods, Maddocks Quarry and the Ercall on Friday 16th; Bird Life of the Weald Moors on Saturday 17th and a Fungus Foray on Sunday 18th·

There are visits to Attingham Park, Dothill Local Nature Reserve, Wappenshall Wharf, Wheat Leasowes Solar Farm along with story walks for children, an evening talk, a quiz night and much more.

Booking is essential for many of the themed events which, as far as possible, are free. Walks range from short & easy through to all-day rambles so there is literally something for everyone from 8 years to 80 and beyond.

Further information: www.wellingtonwalkersarewelcome.org.uk/Festival.html

SHOPPERS! Come along to see this new trade space and have a coffee in our PopUp Barista Bar open Tues/Thurs/Fri/Sat … it’s fab!

[email protected]

Artisans, crafters, vintage sellers & bakers: Trade for a Tenner on Fridays & Saturdays at our PopUp Pitch in Wellington Market (only 10 stands available) email for more information.

POPUP PITCHWELLINGTON

For more information or to place a booking:

Phone 01952 457 395 Text or call 07548 179 001Email [email protected] www.gutterpro.co.uk

PROFESSIONALGUTTER CLEARING

8 Wellington Festival events are FREE – See back cover for venue directions

Event Date Time Place Page Charge

Festival Launch Autumn sizzle – Food and fun Sat 24 Sept Wellington Market 10 Charge

Oktoberfest A month of drink and food Further details www.wellingtontowncentre.com 11 Charge

The Clifton Film Series Eye in the Sky (2015) Sat 1 Oct 7.30pm Belmont Hall 11 Charge

An evening in the company of Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards Fri 7 Oct 7.30pm Wrekin College

Memorial Hall 12 Free

Looking around Sunnycroft Open Doors & Drawers

Fri 7 – Mon 10 Oct

10.30am – 5pm last entry 4pm Sunnycroft 12 Charge

The Clifton Film Series Eddie the Eagle (2016) Sat 8 Oct 7.30pm Belmont Hall 13 Charge

Award winning Comedy Night Sat 8 Oct 8pm The Telford Arena and Live Lounge 12-13 Free

The Endings Foot tapping, thigh slapping, folk, rock with a Irish twist Sat 8 Oct 9pm The Park, Whitchurch

Road 14 Free

Destination Wellington Travel-writing workshop with Marie Kreft Sun 9 Oct 11am – 2pm Wellington Library 14 Free

Sidekix Singing songs from the obscure to the classics Sun 9 Oct 4pm – 7pm Railway Inn, Mill Bank 15 Free

The Nailmaker’s Daughters Three poets from the Black Country Mon 10 Oct 7.30pm New College Telford 15 Free

Dance like a Tudor Gloriana Living History workshop Tue 11 Oct 7.30pm Wellington Methodist

Church 15 Free

A talk by poet Moniza Alvi Wed 12 Oct 7.30pm New College Telford 16 Free

Gloriana Living History explores Sixteenth Century Apparel Thu 13 Oct 1pm New College Telford 16 Free

A talk by actor, presenter and broadcaster Tom Watt Thu 13 Oct 7.30pm The Telford Arena and

Live Lounge 17 Free

Rolls Royce Bruce Lawson talks on Charles Rolls the most fascinating of characters Fri 14 Oct 7.30pm All Saints Parish

Centre 17 Free

The Clifton Film Series Spotlight (2015) Sat 8 Oct 7.30pm Belmont Hall 18 Charge

Writing West Midlands Children’s writing group Sat 15 Oct 2pm – 4pm Wellington Library 18-19 Free

Wrekin Writer’s Workshop For anyone with an interest in writing Sat 15 Oct 10am & 1.30pm Wellington Civic

Offices 19 Charge

Indoor Outdoor Arts and Music Festival A truly immersive experience in arts culture

Sat 15 & Sun 16 Oct Various The Telford Arena and

Live Lounge 20 Free

Doug Richards Running Hot and Cold with BBC Radio Shropshire’s James Bond. A belated introduction to running

Sun 16 Oct 7.30pm Wellington Methodist Church 20 Free

Sue Crampton – A talk introducing Edith Picton- Turbervill the first female MP for the Wrekin Mon 17 Oct 7.30pm Wellington Library 21 Free

To avoid disappointment book your tickets in advance. Events carrying fee’s are independently run.

Programme of Events overview

Festival Film Comedy Music Poetry & Literacy Children’s Events History Talks


Event Date Time Place Page Charge

Poems and Pints Published Author Tony Stringfellow hosts this informal celebration of poetry

Tue 18 Oct 7.30pm Old Wrekin Tap 21 Free

Wellington History Group. Allan Frost presents Birdseye Views of Wellington and The Wrekin Hill

Wed 19 Oct 7.30pm Wellington Library 22 Free

Shropshire’s young poet laureate Mia Cunningham – INVITATION ONLY Wed 19 Oct 2pm New College Telford 22 Free

The Belfrey Theatre presents ‘Roses of Eyam’ Thu 20 – Sat 22 Oct 7.30pm The Belfrey Theatre 23 Charge

Flowers of all Cities. London from Prison to Palace. Colin Pinney narrates an off–beat tour of the capital from Prison to Palace

Thu 20 Oct 7.30pm Wellington Library 23 Free

Royal Shakespeare Association. Richard III – A lecture by Peter Smith Fri 21 Oct 7.30pm All Saints Church 24 Free

Wayne Martin Band Four very skilled pro musicians Fri 21 Oct 9pm The Wrekin Pub 24 Free

The Clifton Film Series Bridge of Spies (2015) Sat 22 Oct 7.30pm Belmont Hall 25 Charge

Wrekin Arts Photographic Club presents an Audio Visual Show of International Photography from their 2015 Salon

Sat 22 Oct 7.30pm All Saints Parish Centre 25 Free

Meet the Authors Sat 22 Oct 10am – 4pm Wellington Library 26 Free

Bug Hotel Making How to encourage friendly insects into your garden

Sat 22 Oct10.30am – 5pm last entry 4.30pm

Sunnycroft 26 Charge

Come along and have fun at Leo’s Loco Circus Tue 25 Oct 11am – 3pm Wellington Market Square 27 Free

John Sam Jones. LGB Activist talks about the lives of gay men in Wales Tue 25 Oct 7.30pm The Telford Arena and

Live Lounge 27 Free

Festival Reading Group Wed 26 Oct 11.00am The Old Orleton 27 Free

Bronte Dr Jonathon Shears and Kimberley Braxton from Keele University explore Charlotte Brontë’s novels

Wed 26 Oct 7.30pm Wellington Register Office 28 Free

England’s greatest love affair Katherine Swynford was John of Gaunt’s mistress and wife. Lesley Smith speaks in the year 1399 as the Duchess of Lancaster

Thu 27 Oct 7.30pm Centenary Theatre – Wrekin College 28 Free

The Clifton Film Series Florence Foster Jenkins (2016) Sat 29 Oct 7.30pm Belmont Hall 29 Charge

Cultural Evening An evening of Asian and Polish music, culture and dance Sat 29 Oct 7.30pm New College Telford 29 Free

Halloween Activity Day Calling all little witches and wizards! Sat 29 Oct

10.30am – 5pm, last entry 4.30pm

Sunnycroft 29 Charge

The Art of Paper Making Learn how to create handmade paper with the thoughts of famous writer with Jonathan Korejko

Sat 29 Oct 12-4pm Wellington Methodist Church 30 Free

The Devils Ball The Haygate’s annual fancy dress Halloween party Sat 29 Oct 7pm The Haygate 30 Charge

Come and meet Michael McCarthy Children’s Author Sun 30 Oct 12pm – 2pm Wellington Library 30 Free


Saturday 24th SeptemberWellington MarketFood and fun extravaganza in Wellington Town Centre with Scarecrow windows, welly trails and more…. look out for details at www.wellingtontowncentre.com

Festival LaunchAutumn Sizzle – Food and fun

Wellington Town Centre

Programme of Events

All the Festival events are FREE to attend. Donation buckets will be present at each event. Any contribution to support the future work of the Wellington Festival will be gratefully received. You can also donate online by visiting www.crowdfunder.co.uk and searching for Wellington Festival.

PLEASE DONATE


Saturday 1st October 7.30pmBelmont HallCertificate: 15 Length : 102 minutesStarring: Helen Mirren, Aaron Paul, Alan Rickman

Col. Katherine Powell, a military officer in command of an operation to capture terrorists in Kenya, sees her mission escalate when a girl enters the kill zone triggering an international dispute over the implications of modern warfare.

Director: Gavin HoodScreenplay: Guy Hibbert

TICKETS £5 Released 1st August on line at www.theclifton.org or at Wellington Market stall on Saturday mornings before 12 mid-day. (Unreserved seating) Doors open half an hour prior to showing for all films. Tickets purchased are non-refundable and the Clifton management reserve the right to change the programme if there are any distribution issues.

Dates, venues and times will be available soon from www.wellingtontowncentre.com

A month long Oktoberfest is coming to Wellington, planned to coincide with the annual Arts Festival and with special

appearances by The Ceremonial Ale Taster of Wellington. Locally brewed beers with German ingredients will be available alongside traditional German beers and local food at 10 public houses and at the Pop Up Pitch at Wellington Market. Venues and dates will be available at www.wellingtontowncentre.com and for more information contact Wellington’s own Ale Taster: [email protected]

OktoberfestA month of drink and food

The Clifton Film SeriesEye in the Sky (2015)


Friday 7th October7.30pmWrekin College Memorial HallEnjoy an evening in the company of Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards – one of the UK’s most truly inspirational and well-loved Olympians.

Eddie was the first competitor to represent the Great Britain and Northern Ireland team in Olympic Ski jumping. Despite little skill for his sport, Eddie’s heroic failures at the Calgary Olympics in 1988 won the hearts and minds of the public around the world. The odds were stacked against him: he was self-taught, he lacked financial support for training and was totally self-funded. He was also scared of heights and he needed to wear his glasses at all times, which fogged up to such an extent while competing that he could not see. He eventually finished last in both the 70m and 90m events however his lack of success (and personality) endeared him to people all across the globe.

Earlier this year, he was portrayed in the biographical film Eddie the Eagle which starred Taron Egerton and Hugh Jackman. The film was hugely successful, both

in the UK and the USA, and marked the biggest opening of a British film since the James Bond movie Spectre in the previous year.

In the words of the President of the 1988 Calgary Olympics: “some competitors have won gold, some have broken records and one has even flown like an eagle”.

Friday 7th – Monday 10th October 10.30am – 5.00pm last entry 4.00pmSunnycroftAn opportunity to take a look at some of the 8000 items tucked away in the drawers and cupboards of Sunnycroft.

Saturday 8th October 8.00pmThe Telford Arena and Live LoungeEnjoy a laugh? Then you are in for a real Festival treat with a night of first class comedy.

Headlining is Hannah Silvester, who after landing the Midlands Comedy Breakthrough Act

An evening in the company of

Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards

Looking around Sunnycroft

Open Doors & Drawers

Award winning

Comedy Night

Eddie Edwards

Sunnycroft


Saturday 8th October 7.30pmBelmont HallCertificate: PG Length : 106 minutes (Biopic)Starring: Taron Egerton, Hugh Jackman, Tom Costello.

The story of Eddie Edwards, the notoriously tenacious British underdog ski jumper who charmed the world at the 1988 Winter Olympics.

Director: Dexter FletcherScreenplay: Sean Macaulay, Simon Kelton


The Clifton Film SeriesEddie the Eagle (2016)

Winner 2014 Award has gone on to cement her reputation for being ‘joyously hilarious’.

MC is Aaron Twitchen; ‘seriously talented, energetic and keenly in tune with the spirit of live comedy’

Add to this five acts (Stu Woodings, Josh Pugh ‘English Comedian of the Year 2106’, Wizzy Janew, Martin Huburn and Marshal Anderson) who have been delighting audiences across the country with their observational insight, social comment, cutting satire, general fun and verbal mayhem and you have something to savour!

Hannah SilvesterAaron Twitchen


Saturday 8th October 9.00pmThe Park, Whitchurch RoadThe Endings, hailing from Telford play up tempo, foot tapping, thigh slapping, folk, rock with an Irish twist (Verna) Drums/Vocals, (Paul) Mandolin/Banjo/Vocals, (Ciaran) Guitar/Fiddle Lead Vocalist, (Jim) Bass/Vocals and (Sophie) Fiddle/Vocals. High energy, full on good time music with covers from The Pogues, The Levellers, The Waterboys, Steve Earl, original tracks from our new CD AON and traditional Irish music.

Sunday 9th October 11.00am – 2.00pmWellington LibraryIn this half-day workshop, award-winning travel writer Marie Kreft challenges the idea that you need to travel to far-flung places for an interesting story. You will look at travel-writing techniques and conventions before venturing into Wellington Town Centre with all five senses primed to gather material for your own travel article. No experience is necessary but you should bring a piece of travel writing you admire to share with the group.

Please book early: to allow every attendee to

receive feedback on their writing, spaces on this workshop are limited to 12.

Marie Kreft is the author of Slow Travel: Shropshire for Bradt Travel Guides and a former winner of

the Independent on Sunday

travel-writing competition.

The EndingsFoot tapping, thigh slapping, folk, rock with an Irish twist

Destination WellingtonTravel-writing workshop with Marie Kreft

Marie Kreft


Monday 10th October7.30pm New College Telford The Nailmaker’s Daughters are three poets from the Black Country: Emma Purshouse, Iris Rhodes and Marion Cockin. Their poetry, deftly edited by Jane Seabourne, is deeply rooted in the history of the area and will challenge and delight by turns. They have been widely praised for their writing and have delighted audiences across the region.

Sunday 9th October

4.00pm – 7.00pm

Railway Inn, Mill BankSinging songs from the obscure to the classics this duo perform great songs in their own unique style.

From 60s to the present, it’s just Great music and a lot of Fun when The Sidekix are in Town.

The Nailmaker’s DaughtersThree poets from the Black Country

SidekixSinging songs from the obscure to the classics

Tuesday 11th October7.30pmWellington Methodist ChurchA practical workshop with costumed demonstrations by Gloriana Living History.

This beginners’ session will give an overview of dance in the 15th and 16th centuries, covering the reigns of Henry VII, Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. Dances studied will be those popular at court and in the country and come from sources in England, France and Italy – farandole, branle, pavan, almain...

This course will be tutored by Simon Haskew who has over 35 years experience of teaching Early Dance and performing with groups such as Gloriana, Caprettie and The Warwick Courtiers.

Suitable for all ages. No experience necessary!

Please wear soft-soled, flexible shoes and comfortable clothing.

Dance like a TudorGloriana Living History workshop

Gaz n Rob

n Acer


Thursday 13th October1.00pmNew College Telford‘An Anatomy of Abuses’, the title is taken from the book of the same name published in 1583 by the puritan writer Philip Stubbs.

Exploring apparel in 16th century England will include:

− Dressing a high status lady and gentleman, from their underpinnings to outer wear.

− Discovering details about the fashion and fabrics of the different levels in 16th century society.

− Charting the changes in fashion styles from late 15th century to early 17th century.

− Trying on costumes and accessories.

A talk by poet

Moniza Alvi

Gloriana Living History explores

Sixteenth Century Apparel

Wednesday 12th October7.30pmNew College Telford Moniza Alvi was born in Pakistan and grew up in Hertfordshire. Her first two collections were published by Oxford University Press: The Country at My Shoulder (1993), shortlisted for the T.S. Eliot and Whitbread poetry prizes and A Bowl of Warm Air (1996). Her later poetry titles have all been published by Bloodaxe and include Split World: Poems 1990-2005 (2008), Europa (2008) and At the Time of Partition (2013). Both these last two books were Poetry Book Society Choices shortlisted for a T.S. Eliot Prize.

Moniza Alvi


A talk by actor, presenter and broadcaster

Tom Watt

Thursday 13th October7.30pmThe Telford Arena and Live Lounge As well as enjoying a career as an actor, presenter and broadcaster, Tom Watt has worked as a writer across a full range of media: plays for a small-scale touring company, treatments for documentaries and feature films, ghosted autobiographies, official histories, football match reports for national newspapers and opinion pieces for Chinese sports websites. And those are just a small selection! Tom will discuss the challenges and the fun to be had in adapting work to suit very different audiences, highlighting the differences between each medium but, at the same time, trying to settle on one or two immutable writing laws.

Friday 14th October 7.30pmAll Saints Parish Centre In Andrew Marr’s ‘The making of Modern Britain’ he describes Charles Stuart Rolls as a “London driving instructor and all round petrol age adventurer”, a description that proved irresistible to Bruce and inspired him to start research on this most fascinating of characters – particularly so since no prose biography had been written of Rolls for forty-seven years. It proved to be a fascinating voyage of discovery, often through papers never previously

Rolls RoyceBruce Lawson talks on Charles Rolls the most fascinating of characters

researched, and should prove equally so to readers and Rolls Royce enthusiasts who acquire his book.

Bruce Lawson


Saturday 8th October 7.30pmBelmont HallCertificate : 15 Length : 128 minutes (Biopic)Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams

The true story of how the Boston Globe uncovered the massive scandal of child molestation and cover-up within the local Catholic Archdiocese, shaking the entire Catholic Church to the core.

Director : Tom McCarthyWriters : Josh Singer, Tom McCarthy Kelton


Saturday 15th October2.00pm – 4.00pmWellington Library

The Clifton Film SeriesSpotlight (2015)

Writing West Midlands

Children’s writing group


history at TCAT and her work at the Ironbridge Gorge Museums, this workshop will show writers how to research local history for their own writing projects.

Afternoon – 1.30pm to 4.00pm

The Cabinet of Curiosities with Jean AtkinJean Atkin is an award-winning poet, writer and experienced educator, based in Shropshire. She was Poet in Residence for Wenlock Poetry Festival in 2015. This Cabinet of Curiosities workshop draws upon a selection of strange objects to inspire poetry through the wonder of curiosity. www.jeanatkin.com

Saturday 15th October10.00am and 1.30pmWellington Civic OfficesWrekin Writers are thrilled to present two wonderful workshops this year. Anyone with an interest in writing is welcome to attend one or both. Please bring a pen and paper. Each workshop is available for just £5 and this figure is reduced to £4.50 if booked in advance. You can reserve places on either or both of these workshops by email: [email protected] or phone Darren Bailey on 01952 405 178.

Morning – 10.00am to 12.30pm

Local history research for writers with Janet DoodyJanet Doody is the author of ‘Shropshire – Remembering 1914-18’, published by The History Press. Drawing upon her experience teaching family

Wrekin Writers WorkshopFor anyone with an interest in writing

Come and celebrate the region’s up and coming young writers with this event featuring new poetry, prose, flash fiction and performance writing. Performers will be members of Writing West Midlands’ Spark Young Writers’ Groups from Telford and the local area (aged 8 to 16), and this showcase promises a selection of wild and wonderful stories.

If you’re a budding young writer yourself, or know of a young writer, come along to find out about the UK’s largest network of young writers, and how you can join in. More information about the Spark Young Writers’ programme can be found at www.writingwestmidlands.org. Photo by Lee Allen Jean Atkin

Janet Doody


Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th OctoberThe Telford Arena and Live LoungeAn indoor/outdoor multi genre music and creative arts festival including dance, graffiti and DJ workshops. Live performances, artwork commissions, street food, local arts & crafts traders and stalls. A truly immersive experience in arts culture, smell and taste.

Event is dependent on a grant being successful.

For more information go to www.wellingtonartsfest.co.uk

Sunday 16th October 7.30pmWellington Methodist ChurchRunning Hot & Cold is the story of Doug’s belated introduction to running – it’s hard to believe Doug is 67 – and his subsequent adventures around the world in places as extreme as the Sahara and Gobi Deserts, Siberia and the ice-cap of the Arctic Circle. It also documents how running has helped him through some of the more challenging episodes in his life, including bouts of anxiety and depression, Doug has recently been appointed as a local Mental Health Ambassador by England Athletics as well as having a role as a Run England Group leader with local running groups. He is also involved being an active runner and volunteer for parkrun.

Indoor Outdoor Arts and Music FestivalA truly immersive experience in arts culture

Doug RichardsRunning Hot and Cold with BBC Radio Shropshire’s James Bond. A belated introduction to running

Doug Richards receives awardfor Running

Hot and Cold


Monday 17th October 7.30pmWellington LibraryForgotten by Wellington and left out of the history books, ‘A Head Above Others’ about the amazing life of Edith Picton Turbervill was my attempt to set the record straight. Now on Wikipedia, the Town’s first female Member of Parliament can no longer be ignored.

A Head Above Others – Published by Perigord Press Available on Amazon and as an e book. 978-0-9573977-8-1 ISBN

Tuesday 18th October7.30pm Old Wrekin TapPublished Author and Poet Tony Stringfellow hosts this informal celebration of poetry in all its forms. This is an evening where you can read your own poems, your favourites by others, or simply listen to what’s being read. A very relaxed gathering of writers, readers and listeners down the pub!

Sue CramptonA talk introducing Edith Picton-Turbervill the first female MP for the Wrekin

Poems and PintsPublished Author Tony Stringfellow hosts this informal celebration of poetry

Sue Crampton


Wednesday 19th October7.30pmWellington Library

Free admissions donations invited

Allan specialises in researching the history of Wellington and The Wrekin and has written over 30 books and countless articles on the area.

Wednesday 19th October2.00pmNew College TelfordShropshire’s Young Poet laureate performing her powerful poetry to inspire other young people.

INVITATION ONLY.

Wellington History GroupAllan Frost presents – Birdseye Views of Wellington and The Wrekin Hill

His talks for schools, societies and public audiences are always popular, made all the more interesting with illustrations from the massive collection he has acquired over the last fifty years.

On this occasion, he will show how Wellington and our enthralling nearby hills have changed over the last 100 years or so, using a selection of aerial and high-vantage-point photographs which have rarely, if ever, been seen before.

As a bonus, the latest edition of the Group’s informative and entertaining magazine ‘Wellingtonia’ will also be available.

MiaCunningham

Copyright Allan Frost

Ariel view of Wellington

Shropshire’s young poet laureate

Mia Cunningham

Allan Frost


Thursday 20th – Saturday 22nd October7.30pmThe Belfrey TheatreThis is the true story of a village in Derbyshire set in 1665 . There is tension in the air due to the presence in the village of rectors from opposing factions. The local tailor takes delivery of a box of wet clothes from London which he dries in front of the fire. The next day he’s dead from a mysterious, unsightly disease. Over the next few months many more people die, and it is a while before anybody realizes that this disease is the dreaded plague. The severity of the outbreak calls for the two rectors to come together and in the end, the village voluntarily isolates itself for fourteen months to stop the plague from spreading around the countryside.

[email protected] or 01952 222277

Thursday 20th October7.30pmWellington LibraryColin Pinney narrates an off–beat tour of the capital from Prison to Palace, via a few bridges, several disastrous fires, four thousand tons of gold, seven ravens and two cats.

The programme springs a few surprises, even for locals. For ex-Londoners it should evoke fond memories, and for would-be visitors it is an entertaining travelogue.

At Wellington, Colin has previously presented shows on the Brontes, Dylan Thomas and W B Yeats.

The Belfrey Theatre presents

Roses of Eyam

Flowers of all Cities London from Prison to Palace

Colin Pinneynarrates an off–beat tour of the capital from Prison to Palace

Colin Pinney

Eyam is a village in the Derbyshire Dales


Wayne Martin BandFour very skilled pro musicians

Royal Shakespeare Association

Richard IIIA lecture by Peter Smith

Friday 21st October 7.30pmAll Saints Church‘History has many cunning passages’ (T S Eliot): RICHARD III and its Pluralities

This lecture/talk is designed to illustrate the variety of ways in which Shakespeare’s history

play has been received and interpreted since its early performances. Initial questions about the play’s theatrical

genre (morality vs chronicle), sources

(Thomas More’s own politically

Friday 21st October 9.00pmThe Wrekin Pub ‘One of the most highly sought after and high energy bands in Shropshire. From rock ‘n’ roll to blues to funk the Wayne Martin Band are four very skilled pro musicians.’

Its no surprise the band has headlined Farmer Phil’s festival for the last 6 years.

skewed version), whether it is free-standing or part of a larger history cycle and its status as a virtuoso vehicle (Olivier, McKellen, Pacino, Cumberbatch) will be addressed. The lecture will move on to consider the ways in which the play has been read in myriad ways. For Dr Johnson, the play exhibited ‘trifling and improbable’ events while Freud treated Richard as a case study in jealousy and alienation. For Jan Kott writing during the period of the great dictator – Mussolini, Hitler, Stalin – Shakespeare’s stage represents the Grand Mechanism: ‘The names of the kings may change, but it is always a Henry who pushes Richard down, or the other way round.’ The lecture will conclude by noting that this variety of readings is entirely appropriate to a sceptical, postmodern culture but, more importantly, to a play that insists on the hypocrisy of acting.

The line up: Wayne Martin – guitar/vocals, Geoff Grimes keys/vocals, Geoff Ockenden – bass, Mick Barker – Drums.

For more information: Phone or text 07747 877011 e-mail [email protected]

Peter Smith


Saturday 22nd October 7.30pmBelmont Hall Certificate: 12A Length: 142 minutesStarring: Tom Hanks, Mark Rylance, Alan Alda

During the Cold War, an American lawyer is recruited to defend an arrested Soviet spy in court, and then help the CIA facilitate an exchange of the spy for the Soviet captured American U2 spy plan pilot, Francis Gary Powers.

Director : Steven SpielbergWriters : Matt Charman, Ethan Coen

TICKETS £5 Released 1st August on line at www.theclifton.org or at Wellington Market stall on

The Clifton Film SeriesBridge of Spies (2015)

Wrekin Arts Photographic Club presents an Audio Visual Show of

International Photographyfrom their 2015 Salon

Saturday 22nd October 7.30pm All Saints Parish Centre Wrekin Arts Photographic Club has been running an International Salon of Photography since 2011. It has grown in popularity over the years and last year we received 6806 images for judging from photographers in 61 different countries. Tonight’s presentation shows a selection of those images from the Nature, Colour and Mono sections of the Salon.

www.wrekinartspc.comCopyright Ian Whiston DPAGB, BPE4*, EFIAP

Saturday mornings before 12 mid-day. (Unreserved seating) Doors open half an hour prior to showing for all films. Tickets purchased are non-refundable and the Clifton management reserve the right to change the programme if there are any distribution issues.

Leopards by Ian Whiston


Saturday 22nd October10.00am – 4.00pmWellington LibraryGuests include:

Simon WhaleyJulie PhillipsDiane PerryPhyllis BlakemoreMollie BoltChristopher Smith

Christopher OwenBryan VaughanDorothy Nicolle Janet JohnstoneCatherine CooperAllan FrostPhil and Jacqui Lovesey

Meet the Authors

Saturday 22nd October10.30am – 5.00pm last entry 4.30pmSunnycroftAs the year comes to a close, discover how to make a hotel for bugs to encourage these friendly insects into your garden.

Bug Hotel MakingHow to encourage friendly insects into your garden

www.facebook.com/railwayinnwellington

2016 Camra Good Beer Guide

Telephone 01952 259 212

44 Mill Bank, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire TF1 1SD

Music Every Sunday Afternoon

from 4pm

ParkTHE

• Real ales, fine lagers & wines• Beer garden• Family and dog friendly• Darts, pool and

dominoes

Lisa and Jason welcome you to a traditional pub atmosphere.

THE ENDINGS

Live EntertainmentSaturday 8th

October

Whitchurch Road, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire TF1 3AG.

Telephone 01952 255810


Tuesday 25th October11.00am – 3.00pmWellington Market SquareEver wondered what it would be like to join a circus? Well at Leo’s Loco Circus teaching is fun. Learn cool tricks that will build confidence in a colourful environment. Entertainment also includes Stilt walkers, Fire breathing and a walkabout Shakespeare comedy duo!

Tuesday 25th October 7.30pmThe Telford Arena and Live LoungeJohn Sam Jones has been writing about the lives of gay men in Wales for two decades. Until his first collection of short stories, Welsh Boys Too, published in 2000, gay characters were largely absent from literature in Wales... and without stories, he believes, it is difficult for gay men to make sense of their lives. Another collection of short stories, Fishboys of Vernazza, followed in 2003 and then two novels, With Angels and Furies and Crawling Through Thorns. He lives in Barmouth, where, in semi-retirement, he runs a small B&B with his husband.

Come along and have fun

Leo’s Loco CircusJohn Sam JonesLGB Activist talks about the lives of gay men in Wales

Wednesday 26th October11.00amThe Old OrletonA friendly, informal reading group.

Festival Reading GroupDiscussing the book ‘Jane Eyre’

Leo’s Loco Circus

John Sam Jones

Firestarter


Wednesday 26th October7.30pmWellington Register Office Charlotte Brontë at 200 – 2016 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of one of Britain’s greatest writers, Charlotte Brontë. The country has been awash with celebrations to mark the bicentenary including a birthday party for Charlotte in her village of Haworth, numerous documentaries, plays and exhibits, even a re-enactment of Charlotte’s wedding. It does not come as any surprise that Charlotte should encourage such degrees of celebration. There does not seem to be a year that has gone by since the publication of Jane Eyre in 1847 when something

Thursday 27th October 7.30pmCentenary Theatre – Wrekin College ‘Katherine Swynford was John of Gaunt’s mistress and wife. Lesley speaks in the year 1399 as Duchess of Lancaster in a spectacular costume of the period. The Katherine and John story is one of the greatest love affairs recorded in English history. Their descendants would go on to be every monarch of Scotland and England up to the current day, including her Majesty, The Queen.’

BronteDr Jonathon Shears and Kimberley Braxton from Keele University explore Charlotte Brontë’s novels

England’s greatest love affairKatherine Swynford was John of Gaunt’s mistress and wife. Lesley Smith speaks in the year 1399 as the Duchess of Lancaster

‘Brontë-esque’ was not produced. Dr Jonathon Shears and Brontë scholar Kimberley Braxton from Keele University will explore the contemporary reception and influence of Charlotte Brontë’s novels, looking at a range of reviews, films, documentaries, comedy sketches and even erotic retellings! It will be a true celebration of Brontë and what she has come to mean to us all in the past 200 years.

Charlotte Bronte


Saturday 29th October 7.30pm Belmont HallCertificate: PG Length : 110 minutes (Biopic)Starring: Rebecca Ferguson, Meryl Streep, Hugh Grant

The story of Florence Foster Jenkins, a New York heiress who dreamed of becoming an opera singer, despite having a terrible singing voice.

Director : Stephen FrearsWriter : Nicholas Martin


The Clifton Film SeriesFlorence Foster Jenkins (2016)

Saturday 29th October7.30pmNew College TelfordTo celebrate the ethnic diversity of Wellington, New College Telford will be hosting an evening of Asian and Polish music, culture and dance.

There will also be the opportunity of sampling food from both cultures.

Cultural EveningAn evening of Asian and Polish music, culture and dance

Halloween Activity DayCalling all little witches and wizards!

Saturday 29th October10.30am – 5.00pm, last entry 4.30pmSunnycroftCalling all little witches and wizards! Come dressed in your Halloween costume and take part in our Halloween activities.


Saturday 29th October12.00-4.00pmWellington Methodist ChurchWords, books, nursery rhymes, songs and recycling are the

themes for this short course: participants will learn how to create handmade paper with the thoughts of famous writers, characters and creatures. We’ll combine images from Alice in Wonderland, Peter Rabbit and Oliver Twist with ideas from Wordsworth, Tennyson and Shakespeare, plus bunches of flowers, rope, old books and lots of words to create exciting papers. The goal? To teach everyone that every Paper Tells a Story!

Jonathan Korejko is an experienced papermaker who teaches people all over the country about hand papermaking in schools, colleges, National Trust and RHS properties, botanic gardens, museums, craft, fairs. His “Papermaking with Literature” programme has appeared at many UK Book Festivals over the last few years.

Saturday 29th October7.00pmThe HaygateSaturday 29th October sets the stage for The Haygate’s annual fancy dress Halloween party ‘The Devils Ball’.

Now in its 12th year and still going strong, the event is, by far, The Haygate’s busiest night of the year.

Each year, The Haygate is decorated to suit the theme of the evening, be it zombie apocalypse, circus or this year’s theme ‘Mexican day of the dead’. The venue also includes a number of themed drinks to make things that little bit more authentic.

The evening’s entertainment consists of live bands, of which the headline band will be Envy Of The State (formerly Newbreed). Envy Of The State has been the only band to have performed at the Devils Balls for the last 11 years. The bands are then followed by a DJ to keep everyone in the party mood.

You wouldn’t want to be seen dead anywhere else.

The Art of Paper MakingLearn how to create handmade paper with the thoughts of famous writer with Jonathan Korejko

The Devils BallThe Haygate’s annual fancy dress Halloween party

Come and meet

Michael McCarthyChildren’s Author

Sunday 30th October12.00pm – 2.00pmWellington Library Michael McCarthy aged 8 suffered a serious accident. His recovery was slow and painful but never did he stop working towards his next goal. His achievements vary from completing the London Marathon, climbing mountains and becoming a children’s author having had 5 books published.

Quality Secondhand Furniture with the Occasional Antique

Tel: 01952 259722 or 0790 6812130

[email protected]

106 Watling, Street, Wellington, TF1 2NH

We are pleased to support the Wellington Festival

www.deball.co.uk

D. E. BALL & CO.LIMITED

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTSAND BUSINESS ADVISORS

01952 26101615 Bridge Road, Wellington, Telford,

Shropshire TF1 1EB

TELEPHONE

LocationsWrekin College Memorial Hall and Centenary Theatre (TF1 3BH): Sutherland Avenue, Wellington. Park full length of Sutherland Avenue or on the Wrekin College car park.

Civic Centre, Library and Register Office (TF1 1LX): Tan Bank, Wellington. Park on Civic Centre car park.

Old Wrekin Tap (TF1 2HA): 148a Holyhead Rd, Wellington. Park to the rear of the pub.

All Saints Church and Parish Centre (TF1 3HA): Church Street, Wellington. Park on the Railway Station or Ten Tree Croft car parks.

Belmont Hall (TF1 1LT): Tan Bank, Wellington. Park on the Civic Centre, Victoria Road South or Belmont/Tan Bank car parks.

Wellington Methodist Church (TF1 1LU): New Street, Wellington. Park on Nailor’s Row or Victoria Road North car park.

The Pheasant Pub and Brew House (TF1 1DT): 54 Market St, Wellington. Park on any of Wellington’s car parks.

The Telford Arena and Live Lounge (TF1 1HJ): Tan Bank, Wellington. No Disabled access to upper floor. Park on the Belmont/Tan Bank car park.

Sunnycroft (TF1 2DR): 200 Holyhead Road, Wellington. Parking onsite.

New College Telford ( TF1 1NY): King Street, Wellington. Parking onsite.

The Belfrey Theatre (TF1 1JG): Prince’s Street, Wellington. Parking on site.

The Railway Inn ( TF1 1SD): Mill Bank, Wellington. Park on any of Wellington’s car parks.

The Wrekin Pub (TF1 1RH): Wrekin Road, Wellington. Parking onsite or on the Wrekin Road car park.

The Park (TF1 3AG): Whitchurch Road, Wellington. Parking available on site.

The Haygate Pub (TF1 1QA): Haygate Road, Wellington. Parking available on site.

The Old Orleton (TF1 2HA): Holyhead Road, Wellington Parking available on site.

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