THE quality of creative writing by people in east Cleveland will be highlighted with readings from a new book of poetry and stories.

The event, on May 1, will include readings by con- tributors and a guest reading by Selima Hill, who is described as "one of the most intriguing voices with- in contemporary British poetry".

The book, called Writing On Our Bodies, is the idea of Kathleen McCreery, who spent a year as writer in residence with Tees and North East Yorkshire NHS Trust. During her residency she focused on the health service and its changing attitudes to health and wellbeing.

The book is described as a collection of creative work that is charged with an exhilarating honesty. The accounts are occasionally funny, but also disturbing.

The readings take place at Saltburn Community and Arts Association and starts at 8pm, with the doors opening at 7.30pm. Admission is £3 and £2 for concessions.

For further details, call Cleveland Arts on (01642) 264651.

The book costs £5.99 and will be on sale at the event. It is also available through Cleveland Arts.