'The British Fantasy Society and Fantasycon, its annual convention, are two of the main reasons I'm in this position, doing the job I love. There can be no better way for young writers, artists and editors, starting down this path, to meet and interact with other writers, artists, editors, publishers - in fact, I would urge anyone hoping to make their living within the fantasy and horror genres to join. At once.'

'I first started going to Fantasycon in 2019 and immediately chose to become a member of the society. I have met so many wonderful and talented people since then, who are always supportive of creative endeavours, and many have become close friends. I've become so much more connected to members of the publishing industry as an illustrator. I look forward to attending Fantasycon every year - it has become one of my annual highlights.'

'The British Fantasy Society and Fantasycon opened my eyes to the publishing industry around the genre. The opportunities to get your creative and critical work produced in their high quality journals and anthologies is crucial for any writer who is starting out in the genres of Fantasy and Horror. Being a member puts you in the conversation and provides you with an opportunity to learn, create and participate. This is where things are happening.'

'My wife and I came to Fantasycon knowing no one, we were welcomed with open arms, it's the friendliest event I've ever been to. It felt like we had joined a community, people from all walks of life bonding over a shared love of genre fiction. We left with literal (in both senses of the word) scores of friends from around the country who we still stay in regular touch with. Where else can you sit in the bar and chat with the most senior person at a major U.K. imprint, a best selling author, a game designer, and a IT guy who just loves Stephen Erikson to geek out, without there being any pretence? I think at one point we joined a cult... I'm a bit hazy on that part, we were invited into a room, I signed some documents and they told me my service to the empire was appreciated, and told me I was charged with looking after psychic tree cats? We're converts for life.'