It's not poetry but I thought you might like to know what I've been up to for the last few months...

Since September 3 Bolton schools and 1 from Wigan  have been participating in Artspeak, an exciting combined arts project inspired by my novel ‘Holly the Freak’. In addition to enriching the literacy curriculum in these schools the project has empowered young people, developed their talent as artists and encouraged them to respond to those challenges that affect their lives.

These Year 6 children have taken part in writer's workshops with me and created works of art with fantastic visual artist Joy Kilpatrick culminating in an exhibition at the Create Gallery in Claremont House, Bark Street, Bolton, BL1 2BY.

I would like to warmly invite you to view the exhibition and learn more about the Artspeak project. It is a family event and children are most welcome. In addition to displaying the work of all the children that have taken part in the project we will be offering drinks and nibbles and a chocolate fountain. There will be a ‘Reebok Raffle’ with the chance to win signed Bolton Wanderers merchandise and other BWFC goodies as well as ‘have a go’ craft activities and ‘add to’ artwork on display.

The event is launched with a red carpet reception at 4pm on Monday 2^nd July when the gallery will be open until 6pm. You may wish to visit the exhibition on Friday 6^th July between 10am and 2pm when the café Create will also be open. Your final opportunity to view the Artspeak exhibition will be on Saturday 7^th July between 10 am and 2pm when café Create will be open and homemade cakes will be available.

I hope you will consider visiting the exhibition and look forward to seeing you there if you are able.