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Creative expression has always been a powerful way for people to connect, share experiences and explore new ideas. The World Above Open Mic Series 2026 by Murphy Writing of Stockton University provides an engaging platform where poets, writers and creative minds can present their work, discover new perspectives and become part of a supportive literary community. The programme reflects Murphy Writing’s mission of helping writers strengthen their craft through workshops, discussions and inspiring creative experiences. This upcoming virtual open mic event welcomes participants from different backgrounds and locations, making it accessible to writers and audiences who want to celebrate poetry and storytelling. Through live readings and creative performances, attendees can experience the energy of a collaborative writing community while exploring different styles of expression. Murphy Writing and Its Creative Community Murphy Writing of Stockton University is recognised for providing writing workshops, retreats and creative programmes designed to support writers at different stages of their journey. The organisation focuses on improving writing skills through dedicated practice, constructive feedback and conversations about the craft of writing. The World Above Open Mic Series continues this tradition by creating an open environment where participants can share original poetry, personal reflections and creative pieces. Unlike traditional literary events that may focus only on published authors, open mic programmes encourage participation from new writers who are developing confidence and finding their unique voice. The virtual format allows writers and audiences to join without geographical limitations. This creates opportunities for international participation and helps build connections between creative communities. Event Overview and Experience The World Above Open Mic Series 2026 is designed as an interactive online literary gathering. Participants can enjoy performances from writers while engaging with a community that values creativity and storytelling. The event provides a welcoming space for: Reading original poems and creative works Listening to different writing styles Connecting with fellow writers Exploring new literary ideas Celebrating artistic expression For many writers, performing their work publicly is an important step in building confidence. Open mic events offer a low-pressure environment where individuals can experiment with their writing style and receive encouragement from others. Key Features of the Event Live Poetry Performances One of the main attractions of the event is the opportunity to experience live poetry readings. Writers can present their original work and share personal stories through carefully crafted words. Each performance brings a different perspective, covering themes such as identity, emotions, relationships, social experiences and imagination. Audiences can enjoy a diverse collection of voices and creative approaches. Supportive Writing Environment Murphy Writing emphasises community and encouragement. The open mic format allows writers to participate in a positive atmosphere where creativity is valued. New writers often find public readings challenging, but supportive events like this help participants overcome hesitation and develop confidence. The focus is not only on performance but also on building connections among people who share a passion for writing. Global Online Participation Because the event takes place online, writers and audiences can participate from different regions. Virtual accessibility removes travel barriers and allows a broader creative community to come together. Participants can join from home while still experiencing the excitement of a live literary event. This approach reflects the changing landscape of modern creative gatherings, where digital platforms help connect artists worldwide. Benefits for Writers and Creative Professionals The event provides several advantages for individuals interested in improving their writing skills and expanding their creative networks. Improve Writing Confidence Public reading helps writers become more comfortable sharing their work. Regular participation in literary events can improve communication skills and encourage creative growth. Receive Inspiration Listening to other writers can introduce participants to new storytelling techniques, poetic structures and creative approaches. Exposure to different styles often inspires writers to experiment with their own work. Build Connections Creative communities play an important role in helping writers continue their journey. Events like the World Above Open Mic Series create opportunities to meet other poets, authors and literature enthusiasts. Showcase Original Work Emerging writers can use open mic events as a platform to introduce their work to an audience. It provides valuable experience for those interested in future publishing opportunities or professional writing careers. Who Should Attend This Event? The World Above Open Mic Series 2026 is suitable for anyone interested in poetry, storytelling and creative expression. Aspiring Writers People beginning their writing journey can gain confidence and learn from experienced participants. Published Authors Established writers can connect with new audiences and share their creative work. Students Creative writing and literature students can gain practical experience outside traditional classrooms. Poetry Lovers Anyone who enjoys poetry and spoken word performances can attend to discover inspiring new voices. Educators Teachers and creative writing professionals can explore ideas for encouraging literary engagement among learners. Importance of Literary Events in Modern Culture Literary events provide more than entertainment. They create spaces where people can discuss ideas, share emotions and understand different perspectives. Poetry and creative writing often reflect personal experiences and social conversations. By bringing writers and audiences together, events like the World Above Open Mic Series contribute to stronger cultural connections. In an increasingly digital world, creative communities help people maintain meaningful interactions. Online literary events combine technology with artistic expression, making creativity more accessible than ever before. Why Attend World Above Open Mic Series 2026? The event offers a unique opportunity to experience creativity in a welcoming environment. Whether someone is an experienced writer or simply enjoys listening to poetry, the programme provides inspiration and connection. Key reasons to attend include: Experience live creative performances Discover talented writers Participate in a global literary community Encourage emerging artistic voices Explore the power of storytelling The World Above Open Mic Series represents the importance of creating spaces where writers can share ideas freely. Through performance, conversation and community engagement, the event celebrates the lasting impact of words and imagination. Wrapping Up The World Above Open Mic Series 2026 by Murphy Writing of Stockton University is an exciting opportunity for writers, poets and literature enthusiasts to connect through creativity. With its accessible online format and community-focused approach, the event encourages participation from people at every stage of their writing journey. By bringing together diverse voices and creative perspectives, the programme highlights the value of storytelling and artistic expression. Attendees can expect an inspiring experience filled with poetry, connection and opportunities to celebrate the written word.

The Help To Grow Management Course at the University of Lancashire is a structured professional development programme designed to help business leaders, entrepreneurs and managers strengthen their leadership capabilities and improve the performance of their organisations. Starting on 25 September 2026 and running through 15 December 2026, the 12-week programme provides participants with a practical learning environment that combines online study, face-to-face sessions, one-to-one mentoring and peer networking. It is designed for business professionals who want to step away from the daily pressures of running an organisation and invest dedicated time in improving their leadership and management skills. For many small and medium-sized businesses, sustainable growth depends on more than having a strong product or service. Business owners and managers also need the ability to make confident decisions, manage people effectively, understand business performance and respond to changing market conditions. This programme provides a focused opportunity to develop those capabilities through structured learning and practical engagement. The course is particularly relevant to leaders who want to improve their approach to business growth while learning alongside other professionals facing similar challenges. The programme is delivered through a blend of online and face-to-face learning, allowing participants to benefit from the flexibility of digital education while also gaining the value of direct interaction. This blended approach can support professionals who need to balance learning with existing business responsibilities. Rather than relying exclusively on classroom-based teaching, the course combines different learning formats to create a more accessible and practical experience for participants. One of the key features of the programme is the opportunity to receive one-to-one mentoring. Personalised mentoring can help participants consider their own business challenges, leadership responsibilities and growth objectives in a more focused way. While group learning provides valuable discussion and shared perspectives, individual mentoring creates space for participants to reflect on their specific circumstances and identify potential strategies for improvement. Peer networking is another important element of the course. Business leaders often benefit from sharing ideas with professionals from different sectors and backgrounds. Through peer interaction, participants can exchange experiences, discuss challenges and gain alternative perspectives on common management issues. The networking element also encourages the development of professional relationships that may continue beyond the formal programme. A Practical Leadership Development Opportunity for Business Professionals The Help To Grow Management Course is designed to provide business leaders with practical knowledge that can be applied in real organisational settings. Participants can explore ways to improve decision-making, strengthen management practices and develop a clearer approach to business growth. The focus on practical application makes the programme relevant to professionals who want to connect learning with their everyday responsibilities. Leadership development is particularly important for growing businesses. As an organisation expands, the responsibilities of its leaders often become more complex. Business owners may need to manage larger teams, improve internal systems, delegate effectively and make decisions that influence long-term performance. The course provides a structured setting in which participants can consider these challenges and develop a stronger understanding of effective management. The programme also gives participants time away from the immediate pressures of business operations. For many entrepreneurs and managers, daily responsibilities can make it difficult to reflect on strategy and long-term goals. A dedicated management programme can provide the space needed to review current approaches, identify areas for improvement and consider new opportunities. Combining Online Learning with Face-to-Face Professional Development A major benefit of the programme is its blended delivery model. Online learning provides flexibility, while face-to-face sessions create opportunities for direct discussion and interaction. This combination allows participants to engage with the programme in different ways and can make professional development easier to manage alongside business commitments. Face-to-face learning can be especially valuable for building relationships and discussing practical business challenges. Direct interaction allows participants to ask questions, exchange ideas and engage in deeper conversations with fellow learners and programme leaders. Online learning, meanwhile, can help participants access course content and continue their development between in-person sessions. The blend of delivery formats also reflects the changing nature of modern business education. Professionals increasingly require learning opportunities that fit around their work and personal responsibilities. A programme that combines digital access with in-person engagement can provide a balanced approach to professional development. Individual Mentoring Supports More Focused Business Growth Planning The one-to-one mentoring component provides an opportunity for participants to receive individual guidance during the programme. Business growth can look different for every organisation, and a personalised discussion can help participants think more clearly about their own objectives, challenges and opportunities. Mentoring can support reflection and accountability. Participants may use the opportunity to consider where their business currently stands, what barriers are limiting progress and which priorities should receive greater attention. The value of individual mentoring is that conversations can focus more closely on the participant's own circumstances rather than remaining limited to general business theory. For entrepreneurs and managers, this type of guidance can be particularly useful when they are considering strategic changes. Whether the objective is improving internal management, strengthening leadership confidence or preparing for future growth, individual support can help participants approach their goals in a more structured way. Peer Networking Creates Opportunities for Shared Learning The programme also encourages peer networking, allowing participants to connect with other business professionals. Networking is an important part of modern professional development because business challenges are often shared across industries, even when organisations operate in different markets. Participants may gain new ideas by listening to the experiences of other business leaders. A challenge involving team management, operational growth or strategic decision-making may be approached differently by another organisation. These conversations can encourage participants to think beyond familiar approaches and consider alternative solutions. Professional networking can also help build a broader business community. Participants may develop relationships with people who can provide future collaboration opportunities, industry insights or ongoing professional support. The value of these relationships can extend beyond the 12-week course. Supporting Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Through Structured Learning Small and medium-sized businesses play an important role in the economy, but their leaders often face significant pressures. Limited resources, changing customer expectations, competition and operational responsibilities can make business management challenging. Structured leadership development can help business owners and managers develop the confidence and knowledge required to respond to these pressures. The Help To Grow Management Course provides a dedicated learning environment for professionals who want to improve their approach to management. Rather than treating business growth as a single objective, the programme encourages participants to consider the broader skills and practices that support sustainable development. A stronger understanding of leadership can influence many areas of an organisation. It can help managers communicate more effectively, make better-informed decisions and create clearer priorities. When these skills are applied consistently, they can contribute to a more organised and resilient business. Why the University of Lancashire Provides a Strong Learning Environment The University of Lancashire offers an established academic and professional learning environment in Preston, Lancashire. Its wider activities include education, research, business engagement and professional development. The Help To Grow programme forms part of the university's support for business and enterprise development. Participants benefit from engaging with an institution that combines academic knowledge with practical professional learning. A university setting can provide access to experienced educators, structured learning resources and a community of professionals with diverse backgrounds. The course is also suitable for professionals who want to develop their management skills without committing to a traditional full-time academic programme. Its 12-week structure provides a focused period of learning while allowing participants to remain engaged with their businesses. A Valuable Programme for Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders Entrepreneurs often need to manage multiple responsibilities at the same time. They may be responsible for strategy, finance, people management, customer relationships and daily operations. As businesses grow, the need for effective leadership becomes increasingly important. The Help To Grow Management Course provides entrepreneurs with an opportunity to focus specifically on the management side of business development. Participants can use the programme to review their current approach, consider new strategies and learn from the experiences of other business professionals. For established managers, the course can also provide an opportunity to refresh existing knowledge and explore new approaches to leadership. Professional development is not limited to people who are new to management. Experienced leaders can also benefit from structured reflection and exposure to different perspectives. Registration and Course Participation The published course schedule begins on 25 September 2026 and concludes on 15 December 2026. The course fee is listed as £750. Participants must register through the relevant Help To Grow process before making payment. The university has provided HelptoGrow@lancashire.ac.uk as the contact email for course-related queries. Prospective participants should review the official course information before registering to confirm eligibility, programme requirements and the latest scheduling information. As the programme includes both online and face-to-face sessions, participants should also ensure that they can commit to the full 12-week learning period. The Help To Grow Management Course at the University of Lancashire is an upcoming professional development opportunity for business owners, entrepreneurs and managers seeking to improve their leadership and management capabilities. Beginning on 25 September 2026, the 12-week programme combines online learning, face-to-face sessions, one-to-one mentoring and peer networking to create a practical and supportive learning experience. Its focus on leadership development and business growth makes the programme relevant to professionals who want to strengthen their organisations and prepare for future opportunities. By combining structured learning with personalised mentoring and peer interaction, the course provides participants with multiple ways to develop their knowledge and reflect on their business priorities. For professionals seeking a focused opportunity to step back from day-to-day operations and invest in their own leadership development, this programme offers a structured route to learning, networking and business improvement. The combination of university-based expertise, practical development and professional collaboration makes it a relevant event for the UK's small business and entrepreneurial community.

As the sun begins to set over the rolling hills of Emley Moor and the agricultural competitions of the day draw to a close, the energy at Factory Farm shifts from rural showcase to a vibrant festival celebration. The Emley Show Stomp is the official after-party of the Emley Show, designed for those who aren't quite ready for the day to end. Held in the grand main marquee, the Stomp provides a high-energy social hub where locals and visitors gather to celebrate Yorkshire Day in style. The event kicks off at 19:30, just as the daytime crowds begin to head home. The marquee is transformed into a concert venue, featuring a lineup of live bands that specialize in everything from folk and rock to contemporary hits, ensuring the dance floor stays packed. The atmosphere is casual and electric, offering a stark but delightful contrast to the formal livestock judging that occurs earlier in the day. It is an opportunity for the community to "let their hair down" and socialise in one of the most beautiful settings in West Yorkshire. Food and drink are central to the Stomp experience. The "Emley Arms" pop-up bar serves a wide range of beverages, including locally sourced ales, ciders, and spirits. Complementing the bar is a selection of street food vendors who pivot from daytime snacks to hearty evening meals. From wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers, the focus remains on high-quality, local ingredients that provide the perfect fuel for a night of dancing. While the daytime show is a massive logistical undertaking involving hundreds of volunteers and exhibitors, the Stomp is an intimate yet lively gathering that highlights the social fabric of the Emley Show Society. It is a time for the hardworking organizers, exhibitors, and the public to mingle. While the evening event is not suitable for dogs, it remains a family-friendly space where children (accompanied by adults) are welcome to enjoy the music. It is truly the "hidden gem" of the Emley Show weekend.