I'm available as a speaker, workshop leader or a competition judge. To find out my fees, or discuss your requirements, simply email me through the contacts page.

I offer workshops on:

  • Writing sizzling short stories

  • Wowing fiction editors

  • The secrets of winning competitions

  • Crafting the perfect twist-ender

  • Plucking story ideas from thin air

  • Knockout plots

  • Dazzling dialogue

  • Creating memorable and thrilling characters

  • Mastering viewpoint

  • Attention grabbing openings and endings

  • Avoiding the most common mistakes.

I also run courses on writing and selling non-fiction books, how to make money from article writing and all aspects of journalism - from showbiz profiles to travel features.

Sessions can be as short as an hour or two, or run for an entire day (6-7 hours).

Feedback from my courses include:

  • "Inspiring"

  • "Outstanding"

  • "The time flew."

  • "Really excellent, friendly and approachable."

  • "What a talented guy - and great on delivery."


As a public speaker, I talk about all aspects of creative writing - but a favourite with writers' groups is the tricks and techniques of impressing competition judges.

Feedback on my talks include:

  • "What a fantastic speaker - so funny and informative."

  • "The best talks were Iain Pattison's - learnt lots."

  • "A very entertaining and motivating speaker. Take notes if you can stop laughing long enough."


And talking of judging, I offer a service where I act as adjudicator on comps of all sizes - both national and club-member-only contests, and can supply detailed judge's comments and individual critiques on entries. I can also, depending on distance, attend winners' nights to present prizes in person!

Happy competition clients include:

  • The Writers Bureau

  • Writers' Forum Magazine

  • NAWG - the National Association of Writers' Groups

  • SWWJ - The Society of Women Writers and Journalists

  • Real Writers (regional judge)

  • Global Writers

  • Southport Writers' Circle

  • OWLS - Ormskirk Writers and Literary Society

  • Thames Valley Writers

  • Ayr Writers Club

  • Flash 500