Be Part of the Story from Page One
Love crime fiction? Help us showcase the South’s vibrant crime-writing scene — and enjoy exclusive perks while you’re at it.
When you join Festival Friends, you’re not just supporting the festival — you’re becoming part of its story.
Your contribution helps us grow Coastal Crime, support new voices, and keep events accessible, while giving you recognition, exclusive perks, and a few thank-yous designed just for you.
Because the best crime stories are built on great accomplices.
How it Works
Join for 2026 and enjoy all the benefits of being a Festival Friend for the year ahead.
(All memberships run until 31 December 2026 and renew annually.)
Choose your tier below, complete checkout online, and we’ll send your welcome email, digital badge, and next steps.
What Your Support Makes Possible
Every Festival Friend helps us:
- Bring more crime and thriller authors to the South Coast
- Support emerging and debut writers
- Keep ticket prices affordable for readers
- Build a vibrant year-round community of crime-fiction lovers
Your support truly makes a difference — and we’ll make sure you feel part of everything we do.
Festival Friends Tiers
🕵️ Tier 1 – Supporter £10
Show your support for Coastal Crime! Includes a digital badge and your name on our Friends Wall.
A simple, accessible way to back the festival and help new voices shine.
🔍 Tier 2 – Champion £50
All Supporter perks plus access to exclusive online “behind-the-scenes” content, priority seating in the Festival Friends block, and your choice of a Coastal Crime mug or tote.
Perfect for readers who love to be part of the story.
🌟 Tier 3 – Patron £100
All Champion perks plus an invitation to the Festival Friends Dinner, access to live author chats, and your name printed in the festival programme.
Join our inner circle and help Coastal Crime grow.
💼 Tier 4 – VIP £250
All Patron perks plus a public thank-you in our newsletter and on social media, your logo or name on the website, and an optional on-screen mention during the festival.
For businesses, book clubs, or individuals who want to make a real impact.
FAQs
Are tickets included?
No — Festival Friends is a supporter programme with perks. You’ll purchase your festival ticket separately.
Can I remain anonymous on the Friends Wall?
Yes — just email us after purchase.
Will there be lots of online calls?
No — just a few exclusive interviews, a live author chat, and access to recordings if you can’t join live.
How do priority seats work?
We set aside a Festival Friends seating block; seats are first-come on the day within that area.
Refunds?
Festival Friends purchases are non-refundable but transferable — email us if you need to change a name.
Shipping & collection
UK shipping is included for mugs and totes.
For international delivery, please contact us before ordering, or choose Collect at the Festival at checkout.
💛 Ready to Join the Story?
Choose your tier, complete checkout, and we’ll send your Festival Friend welcome pack and digital badge.
Your support keeps Coastal Crime thriving — and we can’t wait to welcome you to the team.