The power of the word

Literary festivals — strictly for the elite, bookish insiders, the cognoscenti? Not at Berwick.

Now in its eleventh year, the town’s annual event celebrating words — written, spoken and performed — could hardly be more inclusive.

Berwick Literary Festival’s current director, Andrew Deuchar, has been in the hot seat for only six months, but is determined that there will be something to savour for as many people as possible.

“It’s not heavyweight like some of these events can be. We go out of our way to engage people from all walks of life,” he said.

“The theme this year is ‘Bridging the Gap’ to connect with the Bridge 400 celebrations. We want it to be rooted here in the broadest sense — working with, for instance, schools, with whom we have had a great programme over the years, the care sector, and lots of other local organisations — but without losing the fun of bringing in high profile speakers as well.”

Alongside the Film Festival, it’s one of Berwick’s biggest annual events, and it will run from 7-13 October. The full schedule has yet to be finalised, so keep an eye on the website berwickliteraryfestival.com for the latest news.

Michael Palin is coming in August for a special event in honour of Bridge 400, which sold out within hours. One of last year’s big names — Scotland’s former football star Pat Nevin — proved a huge draw at The Maltings, with whom the Festival works closely.

There will be over 35 acts in October as well as events and workshops for visitors and townspeople alike to watch, hear and take part in.

Andrew added: “We want the festival to become something that really resonates with people and engages with them long-term, not just while it’s on.

“Over the past year I’ve been building relationships with other festivals and organisations in the region, to try to develop a sense of common purpose and collaboration — especially important in these fraught financial times.”