Amid glorious weather and with a background of stunning scenery (not to mention the riot of cherry blossom around the village) there was a succession of wonderful writers and poets. As an audience member said “literature in Scotland is alive and kicking.” We were delighted that this year we had the chance to hear from four as yet unpublished novels – by Iain Banks, Iain Finlay Macleod, Kevin MacNeil and James Robertson.

Topping all this was the first appearance in the UK of Humberto Ak’abal from Guatemala. His poetry has been translated into English by Rosemary Burnett and into Scots by James Robertson who both appeared on stage with him. That session will remain long in the memory of those privileged to have been there; the toe-tingling effect of Ak'abal's presence lingered long after his event was over.