Kirkcudbright Crime Writing

The end of each September sees a small Galloway town succumb to a tsunami of crimes, including multiple murders. Wigtown Book Festival makes St Mary Mead look positively peaceable and could even rival the Midsomer body count.

Taking place from 25 September to 4 October it will be hosting a range of crime writers – from debut novelists to famous names, some from Dumfries and Galloway and others from far beyond.

One example is RMG Parker, pictured here, who grew up on a farm in Galloway and became famous for his Scotland Unplugged YouTube channel. He will be taking part in the festival to talk about his debut dark comedy crime tale A Snowstorm in June (September 26, County Buildings, 7.30pm).

And St Mary Mead may even get a mention as Dr Kathryh Harkup will be in town on Friday, 2 October (County Buildings, 1.30pm) with V is for Venom – a tour of some of the world’s best-known murder mysteries and a chance to discover more about Agatha Christie and her penchant for poison.

Fans of Louise Welsh & Chris Brookmyre will have a chance to hear Killer Stories from two of the country’s smartest and funniest crime writers.

They will discuss their friendship, their literary careers, the state of Scottish crime fiction, and the fine art of murder in the Festival Marquee on September 30 at 6pm.

Same venue, same day but at noon, there will be the chance to hear from Broadchurch creator Chris Chibnall, author of the best-selling Parkwood Murders.

And there’s plenty more in the 10-day programme to look forward to. Simply check out the festival website at www.wigtownbookfestival.com where you can find out details of events and book tickets in advance.