A superb line up of authors and experts will take you through all you need to know about becoming a writer and getting published. Whether you're interested in poetry, writing novels or short stories, screenwriting or blogging - you'll find a panel of insiders who really know their stuff. Perfect your elevator pitch over a networking lunch. Learn the art of writing and how to keep going until you've made it. Filled with inspiration and advice, Leicester Writes is the first and only festival dedicated to showcasing regional literary talent and helping you fuel your creativity.

Taking place across three days from June 26th - 28th, festival highlights include:

Masterclasses on the art of writing short stories with Jacob Ross and Polly Tuckett.

Jamie Mollart, author of The Zoo will feature in conversation with festival director, Farhana Shaikh.

Bali Rai will deliver a keynote lecture on his writing life.

Alison Moore and Jonathan Taylor will be joined by Tom Chalmers (Legend Press) to discuss writing your novel and getting published.

Furquan Akhtar and Shazia Rashid will be joined by Jim Hill (DMU) to discuss screenwriting.

Mahsuda Snaith, Mark Newman and Rebecca Burns will read from their prize-winning stories and share secrets to writing successful short stories.

Events will be taking places across a number of venues including Curve Leicester, Phoenix Square, Centre of New Writing, LCB Depot and Exchange Bar.

Tickets can be booked online from just £10.

www.leicesterwrites.co.uk / @LeicesterWrites / #LeicesterWrites