“Difference” is the suggested theme for Wednesday’s Write Out Loud Marsden on 21 October. Host Julian Jordon said: “If you get chance to listen again to the powerful Sophie Lancaster drama  … [and]  Simon Armitage’s poems, you might feel inspired to put pen to paper on the subject of difference. Sophie was killed, it seems, because she dared to be different. If you fancy giving us your own poem on the theme, or reading a published one you are most welcome. The theme is not compulsory. Neither is reading. You can just listen and enjoy, in this friendly, lively group.”

Write Out Loud Marsden meets at Marsden library, Marsden Mechanics Hall, Peel Street, Marsden, at 7.30pm. A donation of £2 is requested, and biscuits and a hot beverage are included. The event is supported by Kirklees Libraries. More details and Map

Background: A tragedy that continues to haunt

PHOTOGRAPH: ROBERT MALTBY