Performed by actor Laura Kyswaty
Get to know the writer:
What is your story about?
Coastal trade around the UK only became smuggling after the imposition of taxes . From the as early as the 13th century “Owlers” as they were known exported wool from the coast of Norfolk evading the duty demanded by the King and Exchequer . Trading across the North Sea with the European sea ports was so much quicker and easier than going over land by wagon and pack horse. Rural coastal communities saw them selves as “Free Traders” and “employed ” a huge amount of man power and thus were their own security, “Watch the wall my darling whilst the gentlemen go by”. The organisation of these large gangs of smugglers was no mean feat, and required near military control and command. The following is based on recorded fact and conversational supposition, the places and “goods” are real , the people are a product of imagination.
Why should this story be read by people?
This tale is historically accurate and expresses the struggle to survive in a rural coastal community.
How would you describe this story in two words?
Atmospheric Characterful
What movie have you seen the most in your life?
The Italian Job ( The Original!)
How long have you been working on this story?
Gathering the knowledge of places and tall stories from coastal Pubs has taken many enjoyable years.
Corroborating with court records and newspapers of the period online and at the Norfolk Heritage centre also a huge pleasure all be it less convivial.
Do you have an all-time favorite novel?
Many over the years but currently “The Name Of The Wind” & “A Wise Mans Fear” the first two of “The King Killer Chronicles” by Patric Rothfus
What motivated you to write this story?
This story needs telling and I wanted to share it.
What artist would you love to have dinner with?
In a time traveling dinner with Dickens and Kipling but all so to read over their shoulders as the ink hit the page.
Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
I love to travel of the beaten track, slowly, in my camper capturing photos, smells, echoes, tastes and conversations over a glass of something local.
What influenced you to enter the Novel Festival?
I Think I just “Dared” myself.
11. Any advice or tips you’d like to pass on to other writers?
If you don’t tell your story nobody else will.
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Producer: Matthew Toffolo http://www.matthewtoffolo.com
Director: Kierston Drier
Casting Director: Sean Ballantyne
Editor: John Johnson
Camera Operator: Mary Cox
WILDsound Writing Festival 