THERE is no mystery about where the North's crime fiction fans will soon be heading – Newcastle Noir is back.

The hugely popular literary weekend is returning for its sixth year and the event is on the move.

Newcastle Noir 2019 will be held in the city's Central Library as organisers bid to widen the appeal of the annual crime lovers' weekend.

Jacky Collins, the ‘Dr Noir’ who has spear-headed the event since its launch, said: “Newcastle Noir began in 2014 at the city's Lit and Phil and we will be ever grateful for the invaluable support it gave us as the festival developed.

“We are now keen to take the next step and increase the size and the appeal of the event.”

Another important change is for the first time organisers are seeking sponsors to support the event.

One principal backer has already stepped forward – newly-launched North-East digital book publisher, Cheshire Cat Books.

Headed by former Cleveland murder squad chief and author, ex-Detective Superintendent Tony Hutchinson, the company is delighted to be on-board.

Tony said: “As a North-East based company, we are proud to be supporting the fantastic Newcastle Noir. It is not only a highly significant literary event, it is great fun.”

Some of the country's best-loved crime writers, many from the region, will be there alongside authors from more than a dozen other countries.

The full programme of speakers and guests will be announced soon but Northumbria University lecturer, Jacky, promises there will be something for every kind of crime fiction follower.

She said: “From the very beginning we have always wanted Newcastle Noir to be a local, national and international crime fiction event.

“For 2019 we have an amazing range of authors from the region and beyond to delight crime fiction lovers.”

David Hepworth, of Newcastle City Libraries, said: ”It is an honour for Newcastle Libraries to be in partnership with the prestigious Newcastle Noir festival.

“We're really looking forward to welcoming the best in contemporary crime writing for discussions, talks and writing workshops.”

Other supporters of the event will also be present in the new venue. Forum Books from Corbridge, Orenda Books and The Book Trail are long-standing friends of the event and will once again be attending.

  • Newcastle Noir opens on Friday, May 3 and runs for three days at the Central Library, on New Bridge Street.