A CLERGYMAN has begun a new mission -- to ensure East Lancashire writers don't ignore National Poetry Day.

The Very Rev Christopher Armstrong, Dean of Blackburn, is urging schoolchildren to join the biggest ever East Lancashire poetry competition.

There will also be a sponsored poetry reading evening for adults at the cathedral.

"Poetry is a wonderful way for people to express themselves," said the cathedral-based priest. "It can be funny or sad and can make comment that creates greater awareness and social change.

"It can also transport us to hitherto unknown worlds, Harry Potter-like.

"Poetry widens our horizons and helps us to see life anew and that is why it is so important."

Mr Armstrong came up with the idea for a poetry competition after being disappointed with the coverage of National Poetry Day last year.

Now he plans to encourage thousands of children to submit entries to be broadcast on radio as well as published in a book. The theme is food.

The education officer at the cathedral, Susan Gray, will set the rules and timetable for events for the big day on October 7. These include a poetry reading event and awards ceremony, although prizes have yet to be decided.

Poets Pam McKee of Hoddlesden and her writing partner Norman Warwick, known for their work commissioned for the refurbishment of Blackburn library, have been enlisted to help.

Information from Norman on 01706 670829 or justpoets2@aol.com