The Newport and Gwent Literary Club will begin their jubilee seventy-fifth season when they meet this evening. The club has been meeting monthly for dinner and a talk on a literary theme from September to May, almost without break, since just after the second world war. Although disrupted somewhat through the pandemic, there have been many meetings on Zoom.

Hosting its inaugural meeting at the Westgate Hotel on 23 April 1947, and believed to be one of the oldest literary clubs in Wales, Newport and Gwent hosted many literary figures over the years, including the critically acclaimed author, Lady Healey; the linguist, David Crystal; the soldier and writer, Peter Kemp; and poet, author and playwright, Dannie Abse. Priding itself on nurturing emerging Welsh writers, as well as bringing recognised national and international writers of diverse backgrounds to Newport, the club has a growing membership that's drawn from all corners of the city, as well as nationally and internationally. They strive to discuss a wide range of topics, with this season's talks including 'Crime Cymru', 'Black Writers 1600-1900', and even 'Viking Sagas'.

It's a huge achievement for a group like this to still be going after 75 years, and I want to thank all those who've helped over the decades, with particular thanks to all the current committee, led by Dr Alun Isaac, and to Sue Beardmore, who has helped to keep everyone informed throughout the pandemic. Their enthusiasm and commitment knows no bounds, and, as a proud member, I am very much looking forward to this year's events, and would encourage anyone interested to look them up. This season promises to be a vintage year.