A Boutique Literary Festival was held for the first time at a village venue near Sleaford and organisers are already looking to expand it as an annual event.

The free, two-day festival at Three Kings Organic in Threekingham offered two days of author talks, readings, panel discussions, poetry and creative writing workshops on August 29 and 30. August.

Novelists, historians, poets and writing professionals took the opportunity at the bank holiday weekend to promote their offerings and discuss their work.

It was put together by Dee Murray of Three Kings Organic, with the help of Sharon Bennett Connolly, an accomplished women’s historian who launched her 10th book at the festival.

Samantha Maw (left) discussing climate fiction at the literary festival with Dr Amy Lilwall and Clive Simpson.

placeholder image — Samantha Maw (left) discussing climate fiction at the literary festival with Dr Amy Lilwall and Clive Simpson.

Topical issues explored included new literature on climate change, artificial intelligence and the role fiction can play in helping readers understand a rapidly changing world.

Lincoln novelist, historian and university lecturer Dr Amy Lilwall, author of The Waters May Come, joined Sleaford-based journalist and author Clive Simpson, whose climate thriller Flood Waters Down is set in a near-future Lincolnshire, as they discussed climate fiction with Samantha Maw, examining how stories can bring some of today's biggest challenges to life.

There were talks about Lincolnshire social history and medieval women to children's fiction, poetry and creative writing workshops, with authors and experts from across the region and beyond taking part.

Three Kings Organic owner Dee Murray hopes to see it develop and be bigger next year: "We want to create a festival where people can ask questions, exchange ideas and enjoy the conversations behind the books."

L-R - Linda Harris and Dee Murray with the cook book swap where people could swap or buy books, with proceeds going to the Alzheimer's Society.

She said: “The amount of authors who have volunteered their time is lovely. We are hoping to make it an annual event, showcasing Lincolnshire's growing literary community,

Visitors were able to browse books by participating authors, attend book signings and take part in a ‘cook book swap’ or buy books in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society, while enjoying refreshments provided by the venue.

Three Kings Organic are planning a number of other events coming up this autumn, including a Boutique Health and Wellbeing Festival on Sunday, October 4, from 10am to 6pm.

There will be health and wellbeing practitioners, natural and holistic therapies, wellbeing products for sale, organic food and refreshments, live demonstrations and expert advice.

Threekingham Boutique Literary Festival in full swing at Three Kings Organic.

Whether you’re looking to relax, discover something new, shop for natural products or simply enjoy a day out, there is something for everyone and admission is free.

The previous evening on Friday October 3, there will be a classical recital and supper.

Listen to Serenity Flutes, Julie Dearden and Ann Wright with pianist Fergus Black.

This ticket only event is £49 per head and includes a two course supper. Recitals start at 6pm, followed by the meal.

To book email [email protected].