A CREATIVE writing workshop at Newton Abbot Museum will use 200 years of Great Western Railway history as the inspiration for a journey into biographical, romantic and historical crime fiction writing.

The Back Along the Tracks session will focus on the GWR company, founded in 1833 by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, that linked London to the Westcountry and beyond.

Those taking part will be invited to consider the role of Newton Abbot Railway Station, opened in 1846, and the legendary locomotives and train services that ran on the line such as the Cornish Riviera Express.

The workshop takes place within the summer exhibition space, called ‘Making Tracks: Newton Abbot and the Railway’, so there will be plenty of railway objects to see that are not usually on display.

The session will be led by Myfanwy Cooke, New Voices column editor for the Historical Novels Review magazine.

Museum Administrative Assistant Charlotte Edwards said: ‘We’re very lucky to have Myfanwy lead this workshop which will serve not only as a great opportunity for aspiring authors to stretch their creative muscles but also as a fundraiser for the museum.

‘Myfanwy is kindly offering her time free of charge with participants offered tickets at just £7.50 each.

‘The three hours will be spent exploring the literary possibilities offered by the thrills, romance and danger that 200 years of rail travel has created.

‘It’s a real ticket to ride that we’re sure will be popular with writers and would-be writers across the district.’

The event takes place on August 4 between 1pm and 4pm.

For ticket details and to purchase, go to the museum welcome desk or visit https://www.tickettailor.com/events/newtonabbotmuseum/1717992.

If tickets are sold out online or you have access needs call 01626 201121 or email [email protected].