Help for new writers on the block

Sarah Fiske and Ron Baker set up Spotlight in 1995

Are you an aspiring writer trying to get your work published? Or an experienced writer who has hit a stumbling block?

Well help is at hand, literally.

Spotlight writing club based in Lancaster stages regular surgeries to help get your creative juices flowing.

Literary experts Ron Baker and Sarah Fiske give one-to-one sessions in the Spotlight Surgery providing essential advice for writers.

The pair - who are both creative writing lecturers and involved in numerous writing projects including Lancaster's annual literary festival, Litfest - set up the group in 1995 to give aspiring writers a platform.

"We wanted to promote grass roots writing at a time when there was no other outlet for new writers in Lancaster outside Litfest," said Ron.

The Spotlight duo offer constructive feedback in the 20 minute appointments. "We encourage people to experiment and develop their own particular style or approach."

The surgeries are held at the Gregson Centre, Moor Lane, Lancaster and are attended by writers of all abilities, from novice writers to published authors, and all styles from comic to the cosmic.

Ron Baker says they encourage writers to experiment with their work

Ron explains that writers come to the surgery for all sorts of reasons such as a second opinion on their work, proof reading and those suffering a confidence crisis.

"Sometimes people who come have never shown their writing to anyone, let alone discussed it and really value having time spent on their work."

He continued: "In other cases, writers may never have found out about the basics of editing while others may have quite a critical eye but have failed to apply it to their own work.

"When an editing issue is pointed out or questioned it can be, to use a cliche, like a light bulb going on."

Ron added: "Also, as writing can be a largely solitary business and some writers benefit from having a fresh pair of eyes reading their work."

The next Spotlight Surgery will be held on 22 November 2009 between 7.00pm-9.00pm. If you want to book an appointment the fee is £5 per session. Places are limited and must be booked in advance.

• The Spotlight Club organise various other writing events. They organise performance workshops looking at ways of delivering work to audiences and 'Open Mic' spots when they hand the microphone over to poets, writers, comedians, ranters and musicians. Open Mic events take place on the third Friday of every month at the club.