THE launch of the 2000 Ledbury Poetry Festival programme was celebrated by lining the town's historic streets with a series of flags that create a complete verse, writes CATHERINE SHOVLIN.

At the end of walking from the High Street library to the Farmhouse Fayre Caf via the Shell Gallery, people will have enjoyed a perfectly formed Haiku poem.

Children from Ledbury Primary School and residents of the Leadon Bank retirement home worked together on the artistic creation.

The brightly coloured flags, each featuring one word, were designed by artist Jennifer Grierson and sponsored by Herefordshire Council.

They will act as a sparkling decoration in the run-up to the fourth Ledbury Poetry Festival.

Festival director Richard Surman said: "This project has been an excellent way for the festival to involve different sections of the community.

"We are proud of our poets-in-residence programme among schools and homes for the elderly and the Flying High scheme is an exciting extension of that.

"The flags will also serve as a visual reminder that the biggest and most exciting Ledbury Poetry Festival to date is only around the corner."

The prestigious event takes place June 29-July 9. Artists and performers on the bill include Carol Ann Duffy, Simon Armitage, Tom Paulin and John Cooper Clarke.

Other highlights include the free town party on Saturday, July 2, the Ledbury Poetry Slam, workshops, walks and tours.

Details on 01531 634156 or www.poetry-festival.com.