Poetry Festival line-up confirmed

We are just two weeks away from the Welshpool Poetry Festival, which has unveiled an all-star line-up.

Sophie McKeand, Young People's Laureate for Wales, gets things off to a great start with her visit to Ysgol Maesydre on June 9.

Then, on Friday evening, she's on the bill for a night of poetry with award-winning poets James Sheard and Deborah Alma (pictured) 7.30pm at Welshpool Library.

There are various workshops on the Saturday (June 10), and The Emergency Poet will be prescribing poetic healing from her vintage ambulance from 1pm at the Church House.

The free Open Mic event takes place from 4-6om at the Church House on Church Bank. Bring your poems, your friends and your favourite tipple for an atmospheric afternoon of fresh poetry from new and emerging poets. Everyone is welcome to go and listen.

The Festival concludes with another stunning line-up at 7.30pm in the Church House, when Luke Kennard and Helen Mort, two of the most current and sort-after poets around, will entertain. The winners of the Open Poetry Competition will also be announced.

Organiser Pat Edwards said: “Thanks to the Arts Council Wales and Rotary Club of Oswestry, we are able to bring the best of relevant and contemporary poetry to this our third Festival. Even if you're not sure poetry is for you, this is a chance to give it a try. Tickets are just £7.50 and include a free glass of wine or soft drink. What's not to like?”

Full details and links to ticket sales can be found at www.welshpoolpoetryfestival.org.uk. Tickets can also be purchased on the door.