About Us

Pennine Poets is a group of acclaimed and widely published writers who meet for monthly creative workshops, stage readings and festivals, and produce a journal, Pennine Platform, which attracts both local and international readers.

Founded in 1966 at Elland Library, the Pennine Poets were based for many years in Heckmondwike, at the home of Mabel Ferrett. The group now meets in Wakefield. It has close links with Fighting Cock Press. In 2006 the press was awarded a grant by Arts Council England to bring out two anthologies marking the Pennine Poets' fortieth anniversary: Fighting Cocks: Spirit and Emotion, and Mind and Body. These are not simply anthologies, but take readers on a journey through forty years of northern writing. Spirit and Emotion by Mabel Ferrett is a fascinating account of the growth of the group and its relationship to other writers and artists. In Mind and Body Dr K E Smith of Bradford University outlines shared themes, and shows how these reflect social and political changes. Both books are edited by Pauline Kirk. Contributors include Anna Adams, Cal Clothier and Ian Dewhirst, who went on to achieve reputations elsewhere. Photographs, rare archive material and original artwork illustrate the texts. They each retail at £12.50, though a discount of £2.50 (each) is available if you order direct from the press.

In 2016 Pennine Poets will reach their fiftieth anniversary and are planning another anthology of work by current members. This will be a joint publication by Fighting Cock Press and Graft Poetry. Readings and events are being arranged in celebration. Few literary groups have achieved so long a life!

© pennine poets 2016