Tess Hudson

I have been writing semi-professionally for about fifteen years, mainly short stories and scripts (and the odd poem).

I was encouraged in my early endeavours by winning a screen writing award organised by Women In Film and Television and went on to win short story competitions including The London writer’s Competition.

I was the recipient of a Northern Promise Award in 2006.

I am also a drama teacher and creative writing tutor with experience of working with a wide variety of community groups. I am the co founder/director of ‘Pen and Tonic’, a Newcastle based organization aimed at promoting the health/confidence building effects of writing and story telling within communities who are often under represented or unheard by the wider community.

Credentials

Tess Hudson in 60 seconds

When did you start writing?

1970 Portsmouth.

What do you love about short stories?

They encapsulate and celebrate detail.

Do you write in other forms?

Plays and scripts.

What distracts you from writing?

Guilt about not paying other people attention.

Outside of writing, what are your other passions?

Swimming in the sea, my partner and friends.

What is your favourite book?

Affinity.

Who are your favourite writers?

Lionel Shriver, Sarah Walters and Raymond Carver.

Where is your dream location?

New York.

What one item would you put into Room 101?

Smug people.

Do you have any advice for new writers?

If you need to write - write. If you don't but think that you should - don't beat yourself up.