BEST-selling author Katie Fforde will be among the speakers when St Albans hosts its second celebrity-led one-day literary conference next weekend. Organised by the Verulam Writers Circle, Get Writing 2008 will be held on Saturday, February 23, at Fleetv

BEST-selling author Katie Fforde will be among the speakers when St Albans hosts its second celebrity-led one-day literary conference next weekend.

Organised by the Verulam Writers' Circle, Get Writing 2008 will be held on Saturday, February 23, at Fleetville School in Hatfield Road.

As well as hosting celebrity speakers, the conference offers those interested in creative writing the opportunity to take part in workshops, a writers' panel and a networking lunch.

Other speakers at the conference will include local authors Amanda Smith, whose powerful memoir Toxic is published this year, and Toby Frost, whose sci-fi comedy Space Captain Smith is also out in 2008. Topics covered range from how to spot market opportunities and creating fictional worlds to protecting your intellectual property in the cut-throat world of publishing.

Verulam Writing Circle (VWC) president Nick Cook said: "After last year's fantastic success we have had to move to a larger venue. This shows the great appetite for creative ventures in St Albans.

The conference fee is £30 with a £5 discount to VWC members which includes lunch. Full details and a booking form are available from www.vwc.org.uk or by emailing info@verulamwriterscircle.org.uk

Nick added: "Like last year, we aim to inspire as well as educate. It is a fantastic on-the-doorstep opportunity for anyone with an interest in creative writing.

ää VWC meets on Wednesdays alternately at St Michael's Church Hall in St Michael's village and The Goat pub in Sopwell Lane. It is open to all writers from complete beginners upwards and the programme includes speakers, workshops, competitions and manuscript surgeries.