Lit fest planned for town

As a fan of similar events in Morley and Huddersfield, Karen Naylor came up with the idea and began planning with Cleckheaton Writers Group friends this month. The prospective date is May 8-10.

Karen, a copywriter, thinks an all-age approach would set it apart from other festivals – and is calling on people in the town to lend a hand.

“I go to a lot of literature festivals and I thought, ‘Well why can’t we have one?’,” said Karen. “We’re wanting it to be a festival that young people can attend so everybody in Cleckheaton can get involved in the arts and writing.

“I’m hoping people may come from further afield in West Yorkshire, but not necessarily discounting other areas.”

The event is being organised by Cleckheaton Writers Group, Friends of Cleckheaton Library, poetry group Talking Zebras and the Friends of West End Park – where it is hoped workshops will be held for kids. Most of the festival will take place at the library in Whitcliffe Road.

Poet John Irving Clarke is the only confirmed wordsmith to have signed up so far, but Karen said the many contacts organisers have should ensure an exciting range of appearances. Local poets and travel, screen and comedy writers will conduct workshops, seminars and recitals.

To volunteer or offer sponsorship, contact Karen at [email protected] for information about weekly planning meetings or opportunities.