Paul Muldoon will be appearing at Winchester poetry festival’s three-day live event in early October, which marks the culmination of five months of online events, as well as the Poet on the High Street residency of Jonny Fluffypunk.

Jane Bryant, chair of Winchester poetry festival, said: “The challenges of the pandemic meant we had to think differently about how we were going to provide a festival this year and we felt that a hybrid approach of online and real-world activity would give us the best chance of reaching the widest possible audience.

“We are delighted with how the festival has been enjoyed by so many people, especially those in other countries who may not have been able to experience what we have offered in the past. And now our attention is turning to the live events in October, which is very exciting. We are looking forward to seeing everyone and to being able to experience, in person, what makes poetry truly special.”

The three-day live event will take place from 8 to 10 October at the Winchester Discovery Centre. Paul Muldoon will be reading with Clare Pollard on Friday night, and talking with Jon Sayers about craft and inspiration on Saturday. Also appearing will be Patience Agbabi, Kathryn Bevis, Rebecca Goss, Caleb Parkin, Johnny Fluffypunk, Romalyn Ante and Liz Berry. More details

PHOTOGRAPH: CHRIS CLOSE