Well, the mini-market at the Basement Cafe was a little slow and being the first really hot day of spring it isn’t really hard to see why folk didn’t fancy disappearing into a cellar to look at magazines! It was also this weather that made it very difficult to lug a small, but extremely heavy camping table around town (pictured right, taking a much needed breather).

We did, however, meet some fantastic people and enjoyed readings by local writers Chris Killen and Maria Roberts, who were both sharing their recent short stories published in Parameter Magazine. We talked to Paul Neads from Ugly Tree, and Anne-Louise and Kevin from Libertine. We also met Abi from Swings and Roundabouts for the first time. Swings is a very interesting magazine; small but with plenty of punch, and free to boot!

All the magazines on display looked to be maturing nicely, publishing fresh and interesting work and, although it was quiet, there was a lovely communal atmosphere. Pictures from the Mini Market at Basement Cafe, Manchester, 14th April 2007