Law firm’s pride at book festival backing

Law firm Geldards has spoken of its pride after agreeing to sponsor Derby Book Festival for the ninth year running.

The festival, which takes place from 19 to 27 May, is a nine-day programme of cultural events, which take place across the city at 10 different venues.

Inspiring a new generation of young readers with a schools programme which includes meet the author events, writing competitions, workshops, as well as street theatre shows, the festival aims to introduce new authors to local school children and encourage a love of reading at an early age.

For the more mature reader there is a whole host of interviews, discussions and debates with best-selling authors.

The event is funded by the University of Derby and Arts Council England, as well as local business sponsors.

Geldards has backed the festival since its inception nine years ago.

This year, the law firm will be sponsoring a talk by writer and former spokesman for Tony Blair, Alastair Campbell, which will take place on Friday 19 May at Derby Theatre.

The title of his latest book ‘But What Can I Do?’ was inspired by the reaction to his chart-topping podcast The Rest is Politics and from questions Campbell regularly receives from those wanting to influence society.

Exploring themes of motivation and campaigning, as well as providing hands-on tools to make a difference, Campbell explains how to develop advocacy and persuasion skills and how to take practical action to make change.

David Williams, chairman of Geldards, said: “Geldards is thrilled to be supporting Derby Book Festival for the ninth year running.

“The festival plays a vitally important role in Derby’s cultural scene and is a stalwart in the calendar each year.

“We are delighted to support Alistair Campbell’s talk as he provokes readers with some incredibly challenging questions pertinent to the times we are living through. It promises to be a fascinating and engaging event.”

Sian Hoyle, executive director of Derby Book Festival, said: “Derby Book Festival could not continue without the amazing support of the arts and business communities in Derby who recognise the importance of a thriving cultural life for the city.

“Geldards has been with us from the start and we value their continuing confidence in the festival’s success.”

Tickets for all the events at this year’s Derby Book Festival are now on sale. For more information visit https://www.derbybookfestival.co.uk/ .