Have just finished the most extraordinary course in London under the tutelege of Robert McKee.

Two hundred people from all over the world gathered together to hear this Master of his craft discuss the art of Screenwriting- and no, before you ask, I have no plans, but I am a great believer in the fact that we never stop learning until we turn up our toes.

I’m sure I speak for everyone who gave Mr McKee a standing ovation last night after his three day marathon of twelve hour lectures, culminating in the final autopsy of Casablanca, when I say, we all- screenwriters, authors, editors, film makers and students, took away something unique and individual from the experience. And Alan Davies- one of my favourite comedians- got to wear his woolly hat.

I also made some wonderful new friends from across the world- Linda, who is writing a novel in Cardiff… Marina, who has written the most wonderful book for children on Cyprus, her home country, and who insisted on giving me a copy of this beautifully written and illustrated book for the children’s library I have created at home… Annette, whom I thought would surely be writing a legal thriller as she is a barrister like my own Wiggy, but who assured me her first love is romance (and who can blame her!!!)
and Sheri, who makes films in New York, as well as the lovely Israeli lady I met this morning at breakfast- not forgetting my chums from Mills & Boon. Can’t hide anywhere these days

People had travelled from Australia and Hong Kong- from all corners of Europe, both east and west, and in fact they came from right across the globe to hear this renowned Hollywood scriptwriter and teacher entertain and in the process, inform- proving yet again that story like music, is universal and brings us all together.

Thank you everyone for your good company and friendship.

Suexx