Re-inventing North is the topical theme of Newcastle poetry festival, which formerly took place at Newcastle University and is now being held at St Mary’s by the Tyne, Gateshead, from 2-3 October. Poets appearing include Imtiaz Dharker, Sean O’Brien, Daljit Nagra, Karen Solie, Jackie Kay, John Challis, Rachel Boast, Carolyn Forche, and Sarah Howe. 

The festival has an eye-catching theme, although it’s hard to spot a further reference to it among the listed events. The festival is supported by north-east-based Bloodaxe Books and the Poetry Book Society. More details