Greenfield Cree Men enjoyed a great session as part of Durham Book Festival recently when they were fortunate to work with a local writer and get a real sense of the positivity of expression through writing.

The visit was organised to coincide with World Mental Health Day and forms part of a wider initiative promoted by Greenfield Arts to explore and develop ideas through writing with a view to encouraging others to think and see things in new ways.

The Cree Men, were invited to take part in a literary workshop led by Charles Darby-Villis where they studied the work of renowned local author David Almond, looking at his recent publication of short stories Half a Creature from the Sea. The popular author resonates with the community spirit which is at the heart of Cree as the stories play out local themes including growing up in the North East and the Great North Run. The group were also rewarded with free copies of the book as part of the ‘Big Read’ which will be a lovely resource for Greenfield and the local community.

The invitation came about as a mark of recognition for the valuable contribution the group have made working on their recent ‘Little Library project’ in partnership with New Writing North and the fabulous contribution that this has made to communities throughout the region.

Cree is a GAMP public health funded project led by Greenfield Arts promoting well-being through community projects and new members are always welcome. To know a little bit more about Cree and Greenfield Arts should contact our friendly team on 01325 379048 or check out our website www.greenfield-arts.co.uk