THE jelly may have fallen flat, but performing poet Brian Patten was not the least bit flat, giving two lively performances of his work.

Merseyside poet Mr Patten has won recognition for his work, which appeals to the mischievous side of his young readers.

He gave two readings of his recent work, Gargling with Jelly, in a headline act in the Durham Literature Festival, at the city's Gala Theatre.

The first, an afternoon show, was aimed at visiting school parties, while an amended version was performed for an older audience in the evening.

Mr Patten said he enjoyed his visit to the city, which he believes is recapturing its affinity with the literary world through events like the festival.

"It has been nice to be up here, because Durham used to be very powerful on the literary map, and it seems to be starting to build up again.

"My work is aimed at everyone from seven to 100, but there are two very distinct audiences, in the younger readers and the older ones, hence the two shows."

Before the show he joined pupils from Durham Johnston Comprehensive School in sampling a giant jelly.

Despite the best-laid plans of festival publicist Garry Smith, the jelly collapsed on being served, but was still edible.

Other poetry events on the festival schedule include the Big Family Show, starring Barnsley FC's poet-in-residence and host of BBC Radio 3's The Verb, Ian McMillan, at St Nicholas Church, in the Market Place, on Thursday, and an evening of Welsh poetry, presented by Kevin Cadwallender, at the Studio, in the Gala Theatre complex, on Saturday, both starting at 7.30pm.

Further details and ticket bookings for all festival events can be made by ringing the theatre box office, on 0191-332 4041.