A regular poetry night is being launched in the heartland of Salford bard John Cooper Clarke. Evidently, at the Black Lion, Salford, starts on Monday 14 October, and then runs every second Monday of the month in the John Cooper Clarke theatre. First night guests are Keisha Thompson and Ben Mellor. There is also an open mic.

The host, multiple slam winner Kieren King (pictured), said: “If you walk down a street and see three signs, one advertising live music, one advertising live comedy and the third advertising live poetry, chances are people would go to either of the first two. We are looking to change that and give people a fun and entertaining night out.” Tickets are £3 on the door. More details and Map