Writers tell their stories at Hornchurch library

Writers in Havering, who have entered the BBC My Story competition, shared their true stories and were presented with a certificate for taking part by the Mayor of Havering, Cllr Roger Ramsey.

An event for around 20 Havering entrants to the competition, in which people were invited to tell their own story, was held at Hornchurch Library on Thursday 17 December.

Fifteen of the best stories from My Story will be told in a series on BBC One, while the top five will win a book deal.

Tales from Havering residents include a story about growing up in east Africa, escaping from a car crash, how poetry helped one resident who survived a motorbike crash and memories of growing up in the post-war years.

Workshops to help Havering residents write their stories were held in libraries across the borough. The closing date for the competition has now been extended to Wednesday 6 January.

Cllr Roger Ramsey, the Mayor of Havering, said: "Telling your own story, whether it be enlightening, tragic, or emotional, can be a very therapeutic experience.

"I enjoyed listening to some of Havering writers' true stories and I hope they do well and go further in the competition."

ENDS

Contact Claire Still, Havering Council press office, 01708 432 005.