Today marks the start of the 2011 Harrogate Crime Writing Festival, which, as ever, looks to have a rich and varied programme.

I attended the festival back in 2006, where I learned a great deal about crime fiction and even more about the (ahem) legendary sociability of crime writers, bloggers and fans. It’s probably no coincidence that the festival is sponsored by Theakstons – its official title is actually Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Festival.

I keep meaning to go back, and definitely will do so one day, but am honouring a date I’ve made with 10,000 puffins on the Welsh island of Skomer this weekend. To those of you who are lucky enough to be attending: have a wonderful time, and please report back to us on all the riches you find there.