‘Poetry and films’

Paddy Hughes joined the RAF and became a fast jet fighter pilot. He flew Hunters and the 1000 mph Lightning. Through illness, he was forced to change careers and became a documentary film writer. A couple of lucky breaks and he became a director. In all he has made over 500 films and video programmes many of which have won major British or international awards.

He began writing poetry in 1971. They span from life at school to the excitement of front-line flying, film work, rugby, travel and concern for the environment. Many are about the moods, weather, seasons, flora, fauna and characters of Richmond Park.
 

Jo Waterworth presented an evening of her poetry. She is an accomplished poet whose poetry is often surprising, offbeat and never dull. She is an enthusiastic advocate of modern poetry.
 

A poetry happening!  – An evening of poetry provided by members and visitors.
 
No specific subject but as Burns night had just passed any poems by William McGonagall were banned!

A personal selection.

Diana Turton hosted this intriguingly titled evening. The nights draw in for winter and an evening of poetry was just what was needed.  Readers – Diana Turton, Francesca Turton, Daphne Ross and Anne Bingley.

This year saw a record number of entries and a great variety in style and length. Brian Patman, who won our competition last year, had the unenviable task of selecting the three winning poems.

Caroline Mornement hosted an evening of travel poetry with a display of textiles from around the world to accompany the verse. Readers included Joyce Best and James Nash.

Joyce Smith from Evershot is a well known member of our group – her ability to recite entertaining poetry, often from memory, is remarkable.

Betty Davis knows the Helyar Arms well; or rather “The New Inn” as it was called when Betty was running the pub in the late 1940’s.  Her interest in poetry lead her to listen to our radio programme last year and she will be coming from Cheltenham to read her selection of poetry and to recall life in East Coker at that time. 

Prize winning poet Jane Williams from Wells presents an evening of her poetry. Jane is well known to our group having been our competition judge last year. Her poetry is always fresh and original.

Poetry, Paintings and Pizza! Sue Hedges presents poetry with an Italian theme and Art by John Carter.