Have you ever heard the saying: 'May you live in interesting times'? It's often understood to be as much a curse as a blessing. This week has been an 'interesting' time for many, if not downright tragic. Thankfully, my week hasn't included any tragedies, but it has been interesting in ways that haven't always been comfortable, and it's included some fun and good news too.
    My entry in the On the Premises mini competition on a theme of amnesia was placed second. The boost to my ego was far bigger than the prize. The magazine holds regular free to enter contests for short stories and mini works. The current one is for a story of no more than 50 words which must include 'xylophone'. Check out the website at http://www.onthepremises.com for all the details.
    The other piece of good news is that tickets can now be booked for the performances of the Walter Swan Trust Award winning plays. Rehearsed readings of the first-placed and runners-up in both categories will take place at the Wildman Studio, Ilkley Playhouse on Friday 4th December, and full performances of three of the plays, including Antarctica, will be at the Courtyard Stage, West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds on Monday 7th December. The best news is that tickets are free! They can be booked direct from the theatres' websites or go to http://www.walterswantrust.org.uk where you'll also find a poster.