It is with no small measure of delight that we celebrate the life and works of Hay Writers’ Circle founder, Frances Copping, (1934-2020)
Frances founded the then, Hay and District Writers’ Circle, in 1979. She was our greatest supporter, mentor and latterly, our Lifetime President. She had remained actively involved with the group right up to her last few months and is most dearly missed.
Under her guidance, the Circle has spawned a great number of talented individuals over the years, not least is Lynn Trowbridge, who was the groups’ Chairperson for well over a decade. Lynn’s boundless creativity and enthusiasm, still in abundance, has brought together in one volume a wonderful selection of Frances’ short stories and non fiction prose.
A Tribute to Frances Copping, edited and published by Lynn Trowbridge is a cornucopia of witty, dry, humorous and touching observations made by Frances, which appeared over many years in the Hay Writers’ Circle annual magazine, or were performed on stage at Hay Festival.
An abiding love of Hay-on-Wye, it’s surroundings and it’s people are embedded in every page. This theme is echoed in the four individual tributes to Frances made by Lynn, as well as best selling author, Barbara Erskine, Actress and Hay Festival Co-Founder, Rhoda Florence and former Hay Writers’ Circle Chairperson and current President, Ange Grunsell. They serve as fitting introductions to Frances and the legacy she leaves.
Nothing and no one ever missed Frances’ keen eye and kindness. As Lynn Trowbridge concludes, “Although saddened at her passing, through her writing we can continue to hear the silent voice that still speaks – and smile.”
Copies of a Tribute to Frances Copping (1934-2020) are available from Hay-on-Wye Library and Clifford Church – donations at each venue welcome.
Frances also lives on through the Frances Copping Memorial Prize for Fiction. This is an annual fiction competition, open to members and non-members of Hay Writers’ Circle. Pieces of 600-1500 words on any fiction theme are accepted.
Prizes are awarded for first, second and third place.
We are thrilled that Kandace Siobhan Walker will be judging the competition this year.
For more information please click here
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