A typical Southport downpour on Saturday did not deter the crowds at the flower show (hardy types us Northerners). Many sought shelter in the book festival marquee, occupied by long-established Southport indie, Broadhurst's. About six of us did signings, including local authors Carys Bray (winner of many short story prizes) and crime and TV writer M H Baylis (who also gave a talk). But the most successful signer on the day was someone who had written a book about lawnmowers!! (Unfortunately the signing at the Scroll Bookshop in Kirkham this coming Saturday had to be cancelled, because of a serious illness which threatens the whole future of the shop. Indies are vulnerable in so many ways, not least when they depend on a tiny number of stalwarts and illness strikes).