YOUNGSTERS are working with folk artists, poets and musicians, to learn about local hero Tommy Armstrong, the pitman poet, and create their own poems and songs.

Schools in Stanley have been given a unique opportunity to get pupils excited about writing through The Forge’s Northern Writes arts programme.

Tony Harrington, executive director of The Forge, said: “One of the aims of the project is to encourage new talent and to give children and young people the opportunity to create and share their own poetry and songs.”

On Monday, a specially decorated bus was at South Stanley Junior School and pupils will be appearing at a free Northern Writes “Tommy Armstrong” musical celebration at Stanley Civic Theatre on Saturday, February 18.

They will share the bill with musicians Kiddar’s Luck, Bill Elliott, Jude Murphy, actor Peter “Bobby Thompson” Peverley, the award-winning Reg Vardy Band plus a special guest cameo appearance from folk legend Rachel Unthank.

To book tickets, please call 01207-299110.