Portal Creative Writers Group produces a second book
06/10/09
Portal Creative Writers Group launched its second book on Tuesday, 6 October at The Lemon Tree.
The book AB24 Stories from a Postcode is a wonderful collection of short stories and poems accompanied by illustrations which was produced with the support of Aberdeen City Council's arts development team, the Workers Educational Association (WEA), Community Learning and Development and Fairer Scotland Fund. The Tillydrone-based group was funded by the Fairer Scotland Fund and WEA.
Due to the success of the first book AB24 Poems from a Postcode the group has applied to get an International Standard Book Number (ISBN) – a unique numeric commercial book identifier based upon the 9-digit Standard Book Numbering (SBN) code created for booksellers and stationers which will enable their books to be sold in professional establishments.
The group members come from Tillydrone, Fersands and Powis. They started meeting in the Portal Community Centre in Tillydrone over two years ago.
The group members have all spoken about their increased confidence, learning and health and well-being since attending the group.
Group member Liz Fitzpatrick said: "I was looking for something new to do in my life. I never stayed on at school to sit exams and never thought for one moment that I could write poems or stories. I have made new friends and my life has improved. You can do it too if you try."
Fellow member Ian Fryer added: "The Portal Community Centre is a friendly place where everyone is made welcome. The Writers Group is great even if you lack confidence. It certainly has helped me increase my confidence."
Aberdeen City Council's chief executive Sue Bruce who will attend the launch said: "The Portal Creative Writers Group's continued success is testament to how much individual members get from the group. It also reflects the enthusiasm and commitment of the tutors to enable them to develop interests and new skills. Well done to all involved."
Kelly Shankland of the council's arts development team and Helen Posgate, WEA tutor have supported the group in producing the book.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the group or wishing to purchase a copy of the book please contact Sarah at Portal Community Centre on (01224) 492528. The book costs £3 each.
The group is in the process of trying to secure funding so that they can create a third publication.
If you have any queries regarding this, or any other news story, please contact Aberdeen City Council on: 08456 080910.
