Attendees were asked to bring a poem – either their own or from a favourite poet. No subject – just whatever they felt might interest the group.

James Crowden has lived in North Dorset and South Somerset for the last 20 years. Now a full time writer, he has had a varied career as a sheep farmer, forester and cider maker. In the 1970’s he served in the army in Cyprus and travelled widely in India, Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan.  His recent books include ‘Dorset Man’ and ‘Dorset Woman’. Both books document the lives of those working in traditional industries in the area. James has had many radio and TV appearances over the years. This was a very interesting evening.

Thought provoking and often witty, Ama Bolton’s poetry often has a different slant on life. A local poet and a frequent reader at the ‘Poetry Fountain’ in Wells.

Poetry and mince pies! Isabel Berkeley, Clare & Michael Phillips and Amelia Bennett read poetry for the season

James Crowden was unfortunately unwell, so an “open mike” evening was held instead.

Poetry on the subject of  “Weather” . The judge was last year’s winner Jane Williams, from Wells.

Sue McKerracher presented Poetry with an Australian theme + Australian Poets Live

Our second outside event, opportunity for a group photo. Photographic theme centred on the work of Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron.

“A bunch of the boys were whooping it up in the Malamute saloon …”  There is more to American poetry than Dangerous Dan McGrew.  On the eve of American Independence Day, John Darling hosts this evening of American poetry.

Jean Caunter presented her selection of poetry spanning the floral world. This was a varied and lively collection ranging from John Clare to Sylvia Plath.