Frankenstein could inspire horror festival in Marlow (From Bucks Free Press)

Frankenstein could inspire horror festival in Marlow

7:00am Tuesday 11th September 2012 in News By Rebecca Cain and James Nadal

Boris Karloff as Frankenstein’s monster

HE IS one of the most terrifying horror creations in literary history and now Frankenstein's monster could become the inspiration for a horror festival in a Marlow - the place of his birth.

That was one of the most notable suggestions to come from a public meeting where a bold new vision for the town was discussed.

World famous author Mary Shelley wrote part of her chilling classic Frankenstein while living in West Street, Marlow.

She and her husband the famous English poet and writer Percy Bysshe, lived in Albion House, West Street, now named Shelley Cottages, between 1816 and 1817.

Councillor Roy Cadman suggested making the most of Marlow's connections with the writer and her renowned novel, which has inspired countless imitations and new incarnations in film and on TV.

Already, Marlow Town Council has put forward the idea of a literary festival, and Cllr Cadman said why not use this proud connection to help launch it?

He said: "We have got a world famous author to back up a literary festival. Part of Frankenstein was penned here. How about a festival of horror film and literature?"

The discussion took place at All Saints Parish Church Hall on September 1 as part of a consultation on a recently proposed ten year plan, which includes the literary festival idea.

About 25 people attended.

Mayor Jocelyn Towns, Deputy Mayor Suzanne Brown and Cllr Kathy Thomson made a presentation outlining other key ideas such as a music festival, traditional markets, a classic car show, and an open air opera or community cinema.

Another proposal is to appoint a business czar to help drive trade in the town.

Rod Braybrooke, from the Marlow Chamber of Trade, said: "I feel the consultation with the groups has not been properly addressed.

"I feel that the Chamber, and the Marlow Community Forum, should be consulted and not just with one person but as a group."

The Mayor said: "People say why haven't you been to see us? We could not get around to everybody.

"That is why we have set up these meetings so that we can."

She said it is merely early stages at the moment.

One resident said Marlow Town Council deserves a higher share of the council tax and suggested it would struggle to realise these plans without extra cash.

Other members of the public expressed sadness at the lack of a theatre.

Cllr Brown said they need the public's help to make the dream a reality and a lot of the ideas depend on willing volunteers.

Marlovians have another chance to speak up on the plans on Saturday 15 September, 10am to midday in All Saints Parish Hall, The Causeway.

See the plan at www.marlow-tc.gov.uk and comment by emailing to office@marlow-tc.gov.uk.