A POET is preparing a tour of a Durham dale to bring out the lyrical side of its residents.

Jules Clare plans to hold a show in ten different Weardale villages which will see him write and recite a work inspired by each venue as well as encourage villagers to have a go at displaying their poetry.

He plans to hold shows in Frosterley, Wolsingham, Stanhope, Wearhead, Rookhope, Westgate, Eastgate, Ireshopeburn, Cowshill and St John’s Chapel.

He said his aim is to promote a love of poetry and a feeling of positive mental health throughout Weardale.

Mr Clare, who performs as The Jewelster and will be joined by poet Miki Moondancer, said: “I will be holding a poetry hour in each village, hopefully in a pub.

“I will read one poem that I have written about the village and will invite locals to bring along their own poetry and read it out in a relaxed atmosphere.

“That's good for physical and mental well being.”

The first poetry night will be held at the Black Bull in Frosterley at 8pm on Friday, October 4, and the event has been sponsored by Graeme Stark Photography.

For more information on the rest of the tour or to sponsor a night, email julesclare0@gmail.com