Many thanks to members, guests and speakers who made our day in Newnham a great success.
Our walk was conducted in sunshine, with chair, Roger Deeks sharing his extensive knowledge of Will Harvey’s life and especially his time living in Broadoak and working in Newnham.
It was especially thrilling to be kindly invited by the current owners to browse the inside of the building where Harvey worked for local solicitor John Haines while living in two converted railway carriages in Broadoak with his young family.
Then we retired to The George where we had Harvey’s life in ten poems, one of which we heard in the poet’s own voice as it was broadcast on the BBC in the 1940s.
Our guest speaker, poet Stewart Carswell, gave us fascinating insights into how the landscape of the Forest of Dean shapes much of his own work, with some beautiful and thoughtful poems to illustrate.
And finally, we were treated to readings by two other contemporary poets, Carol Sheppard and Claudia Robertson, interspersed with four Harvey poems read by membership secretary, Cheryl Mayo (in her guise as Cheryl Burman author).
Huge thanks to the people at The George, who were wonderful and helpful hosts, as well to all those who attended and took part.
Next year is the 70th anniversary of Harvey’s death, and we will be planning something special. To stay in touch, you are invited to join the Society. Please take a look at our membership page here.