Here is a summary of the survey answers from paper and online surveys which were completed. We have taken all these on board. We acknowledge and apologise for the issues with the tickets. We have changed ticket provider so there is no fee (we are working on being able to sell direct via this website as soon as possible).
Demographics
Age/Gender: The majority of attendees completing the forms were female aged 40-67, followed by those aged 67-75. While there were some neutral answers, all other attendees who completed the form were either satisfied or highly satisfied with the event overall, the quality of talks/workshops and speakers and the venue. More than 75% were highly satisfied. Apart from one blank answer, all respondents said they wanted to attend future events.
Occupation: Those who recorded occupation came from the following groups: environmental officer, retired consultant/coach, retired (no other description), retired teacher, strategy consultant, teacher, writer/poet/artist.
Home: The majority of respondents came from the DT11 post code area, followed by DT2 and then BH4, BH11, BH19, BH20, BH23. Respondents had also come from Cardiff, Exeter and North London.
What did respondents like about the event? Feeling inspired and motivated. Interesting/very interesting/informative talks and workshops. Writing exercises. Inclusivity. Good vibes. Calm. Friendliness. Informative talks. A taster for Purbeck Sounds and/or book promotions. The organisation. Meeting other people whether other attendees or other writers, poets or speakers. Interaction with other participants and the speaker. ‘I loved the opportunity to meet Martin Brown, the illustrator.’ The buzz. Being in a community of writers. Having the opportunity to sell my books. The Corn Exchange was described as a great venue. For example ‘ loved the upgrade to the venue, amazing wall features and lights and the colour chosen, green, is amazing’.
What did respondents feel could be improved? General: A longer time please. More workshops. Greater diversity, reading from books around the town by authors, in quiet corners, churches etc. More funding for marketing so more people can find out about the event and enjoy it. Better weather. Book/Craft Fair (comments by authors): Some background music in the main hall on marketplace day could have been atmospheric, and potentially encouraged more sales; More and wider advertising. Much of the footfall was incidental, from local residents admiring the refurbished venue, with no idea what the event was; The setting was attractive, but I was disappointed not to sell more books. Venue issues: Warmer venue [venue not specified]. A demonstration but it is difficult in library [weaving] [Woodhouse Pavilion] Screening off the back of the room so people aren’t distracted by people going to the kitchen/loos. [Museum] too small. Ticket issues: Our ticket said 11.30. It started at 10.30. A dedicated website to purchase tickets. Eventbrite charge and admin fee.
Are there any specific genres respondents would like to see featured in future events? More life stories. Life writing. Young role models. Westerns. Sci-fi. Environmental (sustainability, regen, climate change). West Country. Crime. Women’s fiction. More poetry. Children’s books/writing. More writing craft. Relating to Blandford or Dorset. Horror. Thriller.
Are there any specific authors respondent would like to see featured in future events? Patrick Gale, Elizabeth Cooke. Chris Harrison, Stacey Dighton, more famous ones.
Ad hoc comments: Thank you for organising this marvellous opportunity. Thank for the amazing opportunity.
Blandford Literary Festival 