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Press Releases
From Michaila Hill, Exeter 382535, August 27,2008
THE BBC's Crime Correspondent turned crime writer Simon Hall will be joining Barnstaple Library readers next month to celebrate the national year of reading.
Simon, well-known for his crime reporting for BBC Devon, has been using his knowledge of crime, the media and the Devon countryside to forge a new career as an author.
As part of Devon libraries' programme of bringing authors and readers together, Simon will be talking about his third book Evil Valley which will be published later in the month. Simon has also been long listed for the prestigious Crime Writers Association Dagger in the Library award, for writers most popular with library users.
"I'm delighted that yet another great writer is participating in the County's very successful celebrations of the national year of reading" said Councillor Sheila Hobden, Executive Member for Culture. "I'm sure there will be many fans going along to hear what Simon has in store with his new book."
Local County Councillor and Devon County Council Leader Brian Greenslade said "I shall look at Simon in a different light the next time he interviews me, I had not appreciated his literary talent before. Obviously a subject area of interest to me following a number of years as a member of the Police Authority. I am sure it will be an enjoyable event."
Simon's first book, A Popular Murder, was very well received and proved to be the start of a popular new detective series. The second book in the series, Death Pictures, was published earlier this year.
The talk is on Wednesday 10 September at 7.30pm and tickets are available for £2 from the library or by phoning 01271 388593. Copies of Simon's books will be on sale during the evening.
Notes to Editors
For further information contact Media and Public Relations on 01392 382535
- Leader of the Council - Cllr Brian Greenslade
- Chief Executive -- Phil Norrey
- Budget £800 million
- Key investments include:
- Schools £349 million
- Adult and Community Services £164 million
- Environment, Economy and Culture £106 million
- Children and Young People £101 million
- Other important County Council support includes:
- Building programme: £185 million for new schools, roads, care services, libraries and recycling centres
- Political make-up:
- County Council seats: 62
- 33 Liberal Democrat
- 23 Conservative
- 4 Labour
- 2 Independent
- Next County Council elections: May 7, 2009
- Key stats:
- Population: 741,000
- Schools: 365
- Pupils: 96,200
- Children looked after: 584
- Adults helped to live at home: 17,622
- Residential and nursing care: 4,212 adults
- Libraries and Mobile Libraries: 61
- Roads: 12,831 kms (7,973 miles)
- Bridges: 3,500
- Public Rights of Way: 4,960 kms (3,200 miles)
- Streetlights: 71,000
- Illuminated road signs: 10,917
- Recycling Centres: 20
- Recycling rate: 49.21%
Figures may be subject to change
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