THE cold snap has prompted ace raconteur Sharon Richards to host two winter-themed story-telling evenings.

“The idea of the two nights of seasonal tales is to warm the cockles of anyone’s heart on a cold winter’s night,” said Sharon.

At the end of the evenings, which will be held at Altrincham’s Orange Tree pub on December 19 and 20, there will be the added bonus of a chilli supper.

“A night of storytelling is a great way to beat the winter blues,” said Sharon, who started her ‘Success Stories’ storytelling club for adults and young people aged fourteen plus, last month.

“And people who came to the launch nights last month told me afterwards that story-telling is much more fun than a night glued in front of the telly.”

Sharon added: “It’s not compulsory to tell a tale but anyone who wants to have a go will be more than welcome.

“I was amazed last month that of the 50 people, who came to the launch nights and who had never done story-telling before, 15 went in for the competitions for the best story.

“Once again, I’ll be presenting a mystery prize to the teller of best yarn from an audience member.

“So I’m encouraging people to share their favourite Christmas memory, tell us their best joke – just set it in winter, of course - or start memorising that winter poem.”

Landlady Di Hart said: “I think it’s a cracking idea in the run-up to Christmas and I’ll be preparing a home-made chilli to make the evenings as warm and welcoming as possible.”

Tickets for either date include the supper and cost £10. They are available from www.success-stories-at-work.com or by telephoning Sharon on 0161 282 4436 Mobile 07854 227 805.