The one-day course for adults at the Birmingham and Midland Institute will consider how to generate and develop ideas like a professional writer, touching on the creation of ‘log lines’ (your story in a sentence), understanding story structure and avoiding common pitfalls.

The courses is suitable for complete beginners and those struggling to start novels or transform their ideas into something they can work with.

Mike Gayle is the author of 17 novels including the Sunday Times Bestselling My Legendary Girlfriend, Mr Commitment and Turning Thirty.

Previously a journalist and agony uncle, Mike’s work has appeared in a variety of publications including The Sunday Times, The Guardian and Cosmopolitan.

He has also been a judge on a number of literary prizes including the Costa, Betty Trask and WH Smith Awards. His latest novel is Half a World Away. His books have been translated into over thirty languages.

Any aspiring writers should book early to avoid disappointment and bring their favourite writing implements, whether that’s a paper and pen or a laptop!