Sometimes you just get lucky. Not only is the line-up of the Stoke Newington Literary Festival is pretty damn brilliant, not only is it taking place across a series of fantastic venues in one of North London’s most sedate and gorgeous enclaves, it’s also just up the road from where I live (small confession – I’m also talking on Saturday afternoon but don’t let that put you off).

In a packed line-up, there’s a fair few things that will be of particular interest to Caught by the River readers, including a talk chaired by regular contributor Richard King, Iain Sinclair in conversation with Laura Oldfield and Ken Worpole, a celebration of the NME’s Golden Jubilee and, possibly best of all, Pete Brown’s afternoon session of music and beer matching (Pete has even had a hand in the beer that’s been specially concocted for the festival by Tottenham’s Redemption Brewery). Music, words and beer? Can’t think of a better way to spend the long weekend myself. See you there early for the Gruffalo. (Robin)