A BRAND new course in crime fiction writing is coming to Helensburgh in the new year – but you’re being urged to sign up before Christmas to be sure of your place.

From Val McDermid and Ian Rankin to Chris Brookmyre and Craig Robertson, Scottish crime fiction has never been so popular.

And if reading ‘tartan noir’ has led you to consider picking up a pen and trying crime writing yourself, the new course at Argyll College UHI’s Helensburgh Learning Centre could be just the thing.

As well as covering different writing techniques, the course will teach you a bit about criminology to support your crime writing efforts.

The course runs on Tuesdays from 7pm-9pm in the learning centre in Kirkmichael, and lasts for 10 weeks, costing just £86. You may also be eligible for a fee waiver if you are in receipt of certain benefits.

This course will start on January 8, but to secure a place, please complete an enrolment form before the college breaks up for Christmas.

For more information or to book your place, please contact Kath or Vicky on 01631 559538 at the Helensburgh Centre or email ACHelensburgh@uhi.ac.uk.