Slow Horses’ Mick Herron ‘honoured’ to lead world’s most famous crime writing festival | United Kingdom | News
Slow Horses creator Mick Herron has spoken of his “honour” as he was unveiled last night as programming chair of the world’s most prestigious crime writing festival.
The internationally bestselling spy writer will take charge of the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival 2025 in Harrogate next July. Supported by the Daily Express, it is the largest and most famous celebration of its kind in the world.
Herron, the bestselling author of the Slough House thrillers which are the basis of the award-winning TV series Slow Horses, starring Gary Oldman as Jackson Lamb, said: “The Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival is a highlight annual for crime writers. around the world, a collegial gathering where the callous and cozy genres meet, and their practitioners discover they have more in common than one might have expected.
“I attended my first weekend in Harrogate ten years ago, and each one since has provided me with a wealth of happy memories. It is therefore an honor and pleasure to be asked to work alongside a brilliant and dedicated committee, with the aim of producing a festival that will continue to promote the diverse talents of our community and provide new treats to enjoy familiar.
Herron has been shortlisted for Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year six times and won the award in 2022 for Slough House. Past programming chairs include Ian Rankin, Val McDermid, Elly Griffiths, Denise Mina, Lee Child, Vaseem Khan and Ruth Ware.
Special guests will be announced in February and the full program revealed in spring 2025.
Simon Theakston, chairman of title sponsor T&R Theakston Ltd, said: “As a long-time admirer of Mick’s work, I am delighted that an internationally renowned writer – and former winner of Theakston’s Old Peculier crime novel the year – takes over. this important role. I’m intrigued to find out which crime and thriller writers will feature on Mick’s program and I’m looking forward to another breathtaking celebration next summer.
Sharon Canavar, Managing Director of Harrogate International Festivals, said: “Mick is so popular with crime fans around the world, and we are truly honored that he has agreed to be the chair of Theakston Old’s 2025 programme. Pecular Crime Writing Festival. Mick and the programming committee have worked hard to create an exciting line-up that truly showcases the breadth and brilliance of crime and thriller writing.
“We can’t wait to reveal all and welcome everyone back to the Festival in July.”
For more information, visit https://harrogateinternationalfestivals.com/crime-writing-festival/
