New crime writers find it hard to enter the industry, because standards are so tough. That's why I set up The Writers' Workshop, an editorial agency which helps new writers get their manuscripts up to the highest possible standards - and into the hands of senior literary agents. We also run creative writing courses; we hold a major Festival of Writing; and we have a huge set of Writing Tips for new writers.

Obviously, though, I'm also a professional author. I've written a fair few novels, and some non-fiction too. The thing I'm most excited about, however, is my new series of crime fiction which is due to launch in 2012. I can't say much more about that yet - things are still under wraps - but I'll say more as soon as I can.