THE well-known poet and literary critic, Tom Paulin, highlights a weekend of events in Ledbury arranged by the Friends of the Dymock Poets on October 6 and 7.

Mr Paulin will be lecturing on the patterns of spoken sound in the poetry of Robert Frost, at the Burgage Hall at 2pm on October 6.

Also, on the programme is David Constantine, a poet and Fellow of Queen's College Oxford, discussing the friendship between two poets - Edward Thomas and W H Davies - and especially their love of travelling and walking. There will be coffee afterwards, and a book stall, and both speakers will be signing copies of their books. Tickets on the door or booking form from Ledbury Books and Maps, High Street, Ledbury.

On October 7, West End actor Mark Payton comes to the Downs School in Colwall to give a one-man performance titled 'Rupert Brooke'. The performance is at 3pm at the school auditorium, on Brockhill Road.

Among Mark Payton's many credits are his appearances at the National Theatre in Richard II and Mrs Warren's Profession, and in the West End in Charley's Aunt and Hay Fever. He has also been in TV productions of The Bill, Emmerdale Farm and Dream Team, while film credits include Howard's End and Maurice. Tickets on the door or booking form from Ledbury Books & Maps, High Street, Ledbury.

Details about the weekend from Linda Hart, chairman, Friends of the Dymock Poets, on 01531 634688.