About Us

Pennine Poets is a group of acclaimed and widely published writers who meet for monthly creative workshops, stage readings and festivals, and produce a journal, Pennine Platform, which attracts both local and international readers.

Founded in 1966 at Elland Library, the Pennine Poets group has been based for many years in Heckmondwike, at the home of Mabel Ferrett. It has close links with the Press, which was recently awarded a grant by Arts Council England. This support has allowed it to bring out two anthologies marking the group’s achievements: Fighting Cocks: Spirit and Emotion, and Mind and Body. These are not simply be anthologies of the work of Pennine Poets, but take readers on a fascinating literary journey through forty years of northern writing. On the way, they promote excellent poetry and original illustrations from writers and artists associated with the group.Spirit and Emotion by Mabel Ferrett is a fascinating account of the growth of the group and its relationship to other northern writers. In Mind and Body Dr K E Smith of Bradford University outlines themes shared by the group, and shows how these reflect social and political changes. Both books are edited by Pauline Kirk. Contributors include Anna Adams, Cal Clothier and Ian Dewhirst, who went on to achieve reputations elsewhere. Photographs, rare archive material and original artwork illustrate the texts.

The first book was published in July 2006, the second coming out in October/November. They each retail at £12.50. The Press also plans to stage public readings in Yorkshire and Manchester to publicise the books. These events are intended to appeal to a wide audience, and provide encouragement to writers' groups, authors and artists.

© pennine poets 2006