2025 Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival Opens in Style

By Sarah Morgan

So, we’re up and running once again. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this year’s Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival has officially begun!

And I’m pleased to say it started in fine style with the now traditional opening event – the Crime Awards, hosted by Mark Lawson.

After an introduction from Harrogate International Festivals chief executive Sharon Canavar, Simon Theakston, representing the main sponsor, delivered his customary light-hearted speech which, as usual, was met with applause and groans in equal measure as he trotted out the same hackneyed jokes he’s been giving us for almost a quarter of a century – quite frankly, the event wouldn’t be the same without them.

He did, however, have a few serious things to say, confirming his company’s long-term support by saying that “life without culture and the arts is nothing”. He also pointed out that the festival is worth an estimated £9million to the local economy and that a record 19,000 tickets have been sold this year.

“Honour”

Then it was down to business, with the unveiling of the winner of the McDermid Debut Award. After being forced to withdraw from the 2024 event, Val McDermid herself was available to hand the trophy to David Goodman for his book A Reluctant Spy. He came with a prepared speech, explaining he was frightened he’d forget to thank someone without it, before stating: “It was an honour nominated for this award, and it’s an even greater honour to win it.” He’s certainly a name to look out for in the future.

After that, Elly Griffiths was a hugely popular winner of the Theakston Old Peculier Outstanding Contribution to Crime Fiction award, but kept her speech short, claiming she knew everyone was desperate to know who had won the Crime Novel of the Year trophy – including, as a nominee, Elly herself.

In a moment reminiscent of Warren Beatty’s Oscars mix-up a few years ago, Simon Theakston almost gave the game away early by handing William Shaw the wrong envelope ahead of Elly’s big moment. Thankfully disaster was averted, and Abir Mukherjee triumphed with Hunted.

Sporting a natty pair of shorts (it was rather warm in the marquee at the Old Swan Hotel), he received one of the biggest laughs of the night by admitting, “I haven’t got a speech – I haven’t even got trousers!”

The crowd then moved onto the front lawn to discuss the evening’s action and share a drink or two. Not too many though, hopefully, because they’ve got a packed weekend ahead of them.

images: Harrogate International Festivals