An evening of poetry readings from local poets David Hales, Anthony Hentschel, Polly Howell and Maxine Relton. The theme is Horsley and its environs, old and new, including poems about the Horsley House of Correction.

Everyone is invited to submit their own Horsley haikus, on the theme of Horsley, with as many as possible being read out at the end of the reading. Send your haiku to horsleyculturalfestival@gmail.com

David Hales has published three collections of poetry, the most recent, ‘Dancing Under a Bloodless Moon, with Black Spring Press. He is a teacher and student of yoga and has lived in the village for nearly 30 years.

Anthony Hentschel has written poetry for over 60 years and taught Creative Writing at Stroud College. Once crowned The Bard of Hawkwood (College) he has written four novels, and one work of non-fiction, all unpublished. He recently submitted a play about Joseph Pilates to the National and the Royal Court Theatres.

Polly Howell has journaled her life since aged 11 and written poetry for the last 30 years. Her inspiration comes from the natural world, day-to-day life and anything that stops her in her tracks.

Maxine Relton turns to poetry when words reach her before images, which she says can happen when moments speak to her most urgently and deeply. ‘Embarking on a poem often creates a shift that leads me to a wholly different place. I feel grateful for such discoveries and surprises.’