**Wigtown Book Festival Draws Star-Studded Crowds**
The Wigtown Book Festival kicked off over the weekend with a bustling atmosphere as thousands of visitors flocked to the streets, venues, pubs, and cafes of the picturesque town. The festival boasted big-name authors like William Dalrymple, who set the tone with a captivating talk on his book “The Golden Road,” exploring India’s historical dominance in global trade and culture. Bladnoch Distillery added to the festivities with whisky tasting sessions, delving into the distillery’s journey from its modest beginnings in 1817 to its current renowned status.
One of the highlights of the festival was the appearance of James Cosmo, the acclaimed Scottish actor known for his roles in “Braveheart” and “Jack Ryan.” Cosmo regaled a packed audience with tales from his illustrious career, reminiscing about the significance of his roles and sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Reflecting on his varied filmography, Cosmo humourously admitted, “I’m very proud that I have been in some of the worst films ever!”
Amidst the literary events, bookshops and local businesses thrived, with Wigtown Bowling Club even transforming their clubhouse into a bustling pop-up cafe to cater to the demand. At the Old Bank Bookshop, owners Joyce and Ian Cochrane celebrated record-breaking sales on the festival’s opening Saturday, marking it as the busiest start to the festival in their two decades at the location.
The festival also saw a heartwarming real-life tale unfold, as Cosmo shared an extraordinary experience involving a last-minute decision to attend the premiere of “Braveheart.” In a twist of fate, this impulsive choice led to Cosmo unknowingly transporting a life-saving human heart, showcasing the unexpected chain of events that can unfold from a simple act of kindness.
As the festival continues until October 6, visitors can expect more enriching experiences, engaging conversations, and literary delights. The town of Wigtown is abuzz with creativity, storytelling, and a shared love for the written word, making this year’s book festival a resounding success.
**Relevant Links:**
– [Wigtown Book Festival Official Website](https://www.wigtownbookfestival.com/whats-on)
By Stephen Norris, Published on Oct 4, 2024, in Wigtown News.