TWO Anglesey writing groups have joined up to write a book of short stories and poems that have been inspired by the island.
The ‘Write On’ and ‘Copper Writers’ groups have published ‘Môntage – Writings from a Welsh Island’ which is a collection of works about Anglesey by its residents.
Joy Mawby of the Môntage project says:
“The island of Anglesey has always attracted writers, poets and artists.
“‘Môntage – Writings from a Welsh Island’ is a unique collection of work by contemporary Anglesey writers who have been inspired by the island.
“53 people have contributed to this book and there’s something in here for everyone – from memoirs to ghost stories, historical fact to comedy, and it’s all about Anglesey.
“We’re all very proud of the book which has also been beautifully illustrated by local artist Hilary Buckley.
“But none of this would have been possible without the support of the Gwanwyn festival from Age Cymru, the Arts Council of Wales and Anglesey County Council.”
The idea for ‘Môntage – Writings from a Welsh Island’ was born in September 2011, as Joy Mawby explains:
“‘Write On’ and ‘Copper Writers’ decided to work together on a book so that we could have our work published.
“We also decided to invite writers of all ages from across Anglesey to submit material for the book in Welsh or English.
“Our editorial committee made the final decision about which works to publish and Age Cymru’s Gwanwyn festival helped us find funding for the project.”
Gwanwyn is an arts festival for over 50s run by the charity Age Cymru.
Age Cymru’s Healthy Ageing Manager Claire Bottomley says:
“‘Môntage – Writings from a Welsh Island’ is a wonderful celebration of Anglesey and the way it has inspired its talented residents.
“There are works in it about Benllech in winter, Penmon lighthouse, Llanddwyn island, the Moelfre lifeboat, the Llanddona witch and much more.
“I’d suggest that anyone who knows and loves Anglesey should go out and buy a copy of the book – you will not be disappointed.
“It has been a real privilege for Age Cymru’s Gwanwyn festival to work with such a creative and passionate group of people.“
Albert Owen MP and local Assembly Member Ieuan Wyn Jones were guests at the launch of ‘Môntage – Writings from a Welsh Island’ at Llangefni Town Hall in June.
Professor David Crystal baptised the book with red wine at the launch event.
The book has been funded by the Arts Council for Wales, Anglesey County Council and ‘Write On’ and ‘Copper Writers’.
