Pencils and what-not, ipads, laptops, phones, we can write with anything these days. Yet there are still times when the words flow like cold porridge. The solution is two interlocking things. One is that if you’re a writer, you need writing time, lots of it, securely ring-fenced, guilt-free. The second is being among other writers, especially warm, supportive darlings who are fun to be with. The combination is sometimes known as Writing Buddies.

From this month, I am starting local ‘buddies’ groups, for writers to get together in person for special time like this:

On the SECOND SUNDAY AFTERNOON of each month between 2 and 4pm, we’ll be in The Old Curiosity Shop, Harbour Street, Broadstairs, Kent. That’s 8 February, 8 March and so on.

On the THIRD THURSDAY MORNING of each month between 9.30 and 11.30am, we’ll meet again in the Old Curiosity Shop cafe. That’s 19 February, 19 March and so on. I’ll confirm further dates nearer the time.

On the SECOND WEDNESDAY EVENING of each month, you’re invited to Chapters Coffee & Books in Sturry High Street, near Canterbury. We’ll gather from 6.30pm, for two hours writing and socialising between 7 and 9pm. If you’d like to write through the whole two and a half hours, feel free.

I hope you’ll find at least one time to suit you. This is just informal gathering, not a course – you’re welcome to join me at any of these times to concentrate quietly on your own writing as you like and to meet other writers. Please bring your writing materials and enough £ to buy your refreshments.