About Whitby Lit Fest

Whitby Lit Fest exists to celebrate Whitby’s literary heritage; to connect readers with contemporary authors and poets; and to inspire residents and visitors alike.

Organisers

Lois Kirtlan

I am the the owner of Hetty and Betty, a multi-award-winning restaurant and venue in the heart of Whitby, best known for its signature Fish and Chips Afternoon Tea. With a strong background in event planning and a flair for creativity, I curate unique experiences. I serve as Chair of the Whitby Lit Fest. I am an avid reader, and amongst other genres, I am a fan of “Cosy Crime,” I enjoy both classic authors like Agatha Christie and Dorothy L. Sayers, and contemporary writers including Jessica Elliot, Katie Gayle, Dee MacDonald and Merryn Allingham.

Fiona Duncan

I have been involved in bookselling as part of The Whitby Bookshop for the past 25 years and am passionate about the people and the place. I believe that reading is one of the greatest gifts that can be shared and am totally committed to bringing it to as wide an audience as possible.

I’m excited to celebrate Whitby’s rich literary heritage, through the Whitby Lit Fest, with the many authors, readers and friends that will be joining us in November.

Myself, I like nothing better than to lose myself in a good book. Anything from modern contemporary fiction – Miranda July, Douglas Stuart to Daphne du Maurier and Muriel Spark, not forgetting the classics – I love the Brontes. And, fortunately, Dracula has always been one of my favourite books!

Adele Duffield

I’m really excited to be part of this Literature Festival.  Born and raised locally, I’ve so often dreamt about this and it’s exactly what Whitby needs to add, something a little different to the year-round events calendar for locals and tourists.  I’ve always been passionate about reading and love writing myself.  I completed A-levels in English , French, and German literature, obtained my Degree in English Literature & Culture, and a MA in Creative Writing.  I’ve written a full-length play, some anecdotal short stories, poetry, and then a huge Covid Diary from 2020 to 2023 – that lasted way longer the 3-month lockdown diary I had planned!  I was a Student Skills Advisor at University before I became a Community Development Librarian working in the Whitby area, so books are definitely my bag!

Ann and Clair Chadwick

Sisters, Ann and Clair Chadwick have represented the arts for over 15 years via Cause UK Public Relations. They have contributed to the programming of the festival this year, by securing authors and panels.  They are also providing PR and event management support.

Jamie Wallis

I’m Place Development Officer at Visit North Yorkshire, part of North Yorkshire Council. I’m delighted to part of this wonderful steering group organising the first Whitby Lit Fest and celebrating Whitby and all things books.

I look after the festival budget and help organise the venues. I love reading, and it is one of my joys in life. I read many different genres, including historical and contemporary fiction but my favourite genre would be science fiction. My favourite authors include Justin Cronin, Sebastian Faulks, Bill Bryson, and Jeffrey Archer. More recently I’ve been venturing in to Murder Mystery with Richard Osman and the Thursday Murder Club.

Mark Williamson

I’m Mark Williamson, a Whitby local and Trustee of Whitby Lit Fest. I largely bring my experience of charitable structures and running large-scale events from my career in the heritage and cultural sector.

I love nothing more than learning more about the medieval period, but when it comes to non-fiction, I’m happiest with a big thriller such as a Jack Ryan or a Dan Brown page-turner!

Jack Barber

I grew up in Fylingthorpe, attending Eskdale School and then Whitby College. After completing my degree in 2007 I returned to Whitby and began my career in IT. It’s always been my intention to help organisations of all kinds makes the most of the internet, so I was glad to be invited to help organise the Lit Fest and support this fantastic event. I mostly read theology and books relating to my work. My children are all avid readers and we’ve enjoyed reading many books together as a family over the years.

In the Media

For a full breakdown of coverage, click here. Find out what people are saying about Whitby Lit Fest:

• Whitby Literature Festival celebrates successful business launch – The Scarborough News
• Whitby set to host its first literature festival in 2025 to celebrate the town’s literary links, inspire writers and boost tourism – The Scarborough News
• ‘A book lovers’ playground’ – Author Lee Child and TV star Rob Rinder on way to first-ever Whitby Lit Fest – The Scarborough News
• New Whitby literary festival partners with Yorkshire’s Ethical Agency Cause UK – The Scarborough News
• Whitby to launch its first literature festival next year – YorkMix
• Jack Reacher author Lee Child at Whitby Lit Fest 2025 – Gazette & Herald
• Whitby to host first-ever literature festival – BBC News
• Sir Alan Ayckbourn joins acclaimed line-up for inaugural Whitby Literature Festival – The Scarborough News
• Lee Child to headline inaugural Whitby Lit Fest – The Bookseller
• ‘National treasure’ Miriam Margolyes to join first-ever Whitby Lit Fest’s packed programme – The Scarborough News