Hey there, Bedfordshire!
I hope this message finds you well. As the Poetry Champion for Bedfordshire, in collaboration with the Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada, I want to introduce you to a project called Bedfordshire Together. This initiative aims to bring our communities together through the power of poetry and walking and Arts in Athletics.
The therapeutic benefits of engaging in sports, running, walking, talking, and creating are well-documented. Through this project, we aim to foster togetherness across generations, cultures, traditions, mindsets, realms, and ideals by creating poetry that is transformative for people, places, and spaces.
The Bedfordshire Together Project
We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Bedfordshire Together project, an exciting initiative designed to unite our diverse community through collaboration, creativity, and celebration. Embracing the theme of “togetherness,” this project seeks to connect various organisations, artists, and individuals across Bedfordshire to foster relationships, creativity, and dialogue.
The Bedfordshire Together Vision
At its core, Bedfordshire Together is about bringing people together to share their unique voices and experiences. We believe that by collaborating with existing projects, networks, and community groups, we can create enriching events that not only celebrate our differences but also highlight what we have in common.
The Power of Poetry
A key component of the Bedfordshire Together project is the “Ballad of Bedfordshire”. Local poets are working together to create a collective poem that reflects the rich tapestry of life within our county. This collaborative effort will showcase the stories, traditions, and creativity of Bedfordshire, promoting a sense of belonging and unity among its residents.
Community Engagement and Workshops
To engage the community, we will be hosting “Pilgrims’ Poetry Walking Workshops”. These unique sessions allow participants to experience the beauty of Bedfordshire while exploring their own creativity through poetry.
Our “Squash it!” classes are part of our “Arts in Athletics” programme in partnership with Bedfordshire Police and WoCiP. “Squash It” combines art and sports to promote mental health among young people of color. Led by Lee Collins and supported by Luton & Dunstable Squash Club, the initiative aims to enhance self-esteem, combat isolation, and build community through squash sessions, fostering life skills and resilience.
We have also created the writing group “The Bards of Bedfordshire”, based in Wardown House, Museum & Gallery.
During these workshops, local poets guide participants in writing exercises set against stunning backdrops, or within sporting activities such as walking, squash and athletics, culminating in contributions to the annual Ballad of Bedfordshire.
Debra Knight
Poetry Champion for Bedfordshire
Our Call to Action
We encourage everyone in Bedfordshire to get involved in the Bedfordshire Together project. Whether you are a poet, a community member, or someone who simply enjoys the arts, your participation is valued. Join us in building connections, sharing stories, and celebrating our vibrant community.
Stay Connected
Follow our progress as we bring people together to create something truly special. If you or someone you know would like to support or be involved in the Bedfordshire Together project, please reach out to us!
Volunteering Opportunities
Are you ready to dive into some volunteer fun? We’re on the hunt for eager helpers to join our award-winning squad! Whether it’s you or someone you know, we’ve got exciting roles waiting.
Let’s rally the troops and make this community project shine. Join us and be part of the Queens Award-winning team.
We Want You To Be Part Of The Movement
We’re on the lookout for fellow adventurers! If you or someone you know is up for some poetic strolls, give us a holler. Join us for our walking workshops where we blend poetry with steps, creating masterpieces amidst stunning views. After a few hours of wandering and writing, you’ll leave with newfound poetry prowess and a bunch of crafted verses.
Budding Poet? Want A Chance To Shine
Join us for a poetry workshop or host one with us, to foster creativity and expression.
Connect with others, share thoughts, and create beautiful verses in a fun and inspiring environment.
Let’s create something magical together.
Poetry Together
How Bedfordshire Together Began
Poetry Together is the brainchild of author, broadcaster, and poetry fanatic, Gyles Brandreth, who is working with Poetry Champions across the country to promote creating poetry together.
Bedfordshire’s Poetry Champion Debra Knight will launch Bedfordshire’s Poetry Together Campaign at Wardown House, Museum & Gallery on June 30th. at 12 noon.
At an intimate gathering Debra will open the programme with a Poetry workshop entitled “Internity: In The Beginning Was The Word!”
This engaging workshop combines the art of poetry with Cymatic and Solfeggio frequencies, ancient storytelling traditions, and narrative psychology to explore the profound influence of sound and words on our emotions, bodies, and surroundings.
Debra, an interdisciplinary artist, practitioner, C.E.O of Queen’s Award Winning social enterprise NINE RED Presents… (CIC) and Poetry Champion for Bedfordshire, will lead this unique workshop. She will utilize her transformative approach, which integrates light, colour, projection, sound, aromatherapy, and movement with the powerful medium of poetry to convey messages at multiple levels of awareness.
The Power of Poetry and Nature
Our Pilgrims Poetry Walking Workshops offer a unique opportunity to blend the therapeutic benefits of walking with poetry writing. Guided by local poets, participants will engage in creative exercises against the backdrop of Bedfordshire’s stunning scenery. Each 3-4 hour walk with workshop, will not only enhance poetry skills but will also nurture companionship and fellowship among participants.
As we walk and write together, we will culminate our efforts in the “Ballads of Bedfordshire” poetry book, celebrating our shared experiences and diverse voices.
Pilgrim’s Poetry Walks:
Celebrating Our Diverse Journey Together
Welcome to the Pilgrims Poetry Walks, an initiative that seeks to unite the diverse voices of Bedfordshire through the power of poetry and shared experiences. As a county rich in history, culture, and community spirit, Bedfordshire offers a unique backdrop for our poetry walks, connecting us to the legacy of one of its most famous residents, John Bunyan.
A Journey Inspired by John Bunyan
John Bunyan, author of “The Pilgrim’s Progress”, is celebrated for his powerful narrative that follows the spiritual journey of a man seeking enlightenment. Just as Bunyan’s characters navigated challenges and challenges in their pursuit of wisdom, our walks invite participants to reflect upon their own journeys. These walks are not just a physical exploration of our beautiful landscapes; they represent a metaphorical pilgrimage for each individual, as we traverse the paths of connection, creativity, and community.
Bedfordshire: A Tapestry of Diversity
Bedfordshire stands as a vibrant tapestry woven from countless cultures, traditions, and experiences. Much like Bunyan’s pilgrims, who came from various backgrounds yet shared a common goal, our walks celebrate the ethos that we are all pilgrims on this shared journey of life. In bringing together individuals from different walks of life, we foster a unique environment in which stories, ideas, and poetry can flourish together.
Join Us on This Journey
We invite everyone in Bedfordshire to join us on this creative pilgrimage. Whether you’re an experienced poet or a newcomer to writing, there’s a place for you. Embrace the opportunity to meet others, share your stories, and contribute to the collective narrative of our community.
If you’re interested in supporting our initiative, engaging with local schools, or simply finding out more about our upcoming events, feel free to reach out. Together, let’s celebrate the essence of Bedfordshire as we embark on this journey of creativity, connection, and transformation.
Join us as we walk, talk, and create—because in Bedfordshire, we are all pilgrims on this beautiful journey together!
Upcoming Event Schedule
March – October 2025
Walk The Bunyan Trail
Pilgrim Poetry Walks
Join our Pilgrims Poetry Walking Workshops to explore Bedfordshire’s beauty, enhance poetry skills, and foster companionship. culminate your experience within the “Ballad of Bedfordshire” poem.
Monthly
Become a Bard of Bedfordshire
Poetry Workshops (Word Mechanics)
Word Mechanics involves the art of crafting language to express emotions, thoughts, and creativity. It enhances the human experience by fostering connection, understanding, and the exploration of our shared stories and identities.
15th June 2025
Poetry E.Motion Book and Wellbeing Festival Tour
Poetry E.Motion: Prose & Poetry Book
Discover the transformative power of self-awareness and emotional healing with “Poetry E.Motion: Collateral Beauty.” This remarkable guide combines prose and poetry to lead you on an inspiring journey toward your Higher Self.
Summer 2025
Poetry E.Motion Book and Wellbeing Festival Tour
Poetry E.Motion: Poetry & Wellbeing Festival
Step into a world where creativity meets healing at our Poetry and Wellbeing Festival! This vibrant gathering promises an unforgettable experience filled with engaging workshops, inspiring performances, and captivating exhibitions—all designed to elevate your mind, body, and spirit.
Summer 2025
Fundraising Event
Literary Luck:
Discover the transformative power of self-awareness and emotional healing with “Poetry E.Motion: Collateral Beauty.” This remarkable guide combines prose and poetry to lead you on an inspiring journey toward your Higher Self.
Pilgrim Poetry Walks
Provisional Walk Schedule 2025
Walk 1. 29/30 March – Upper Sundon to Pulloxhill. 2hr 30
Walk 2. 12/13 April – Pulloxhill to Harlington. 1hr 30
Walk 3. 19/20 April – Harlington to Steppingley. 2hr
Walk 4. 26 April – Steppingley to Ampthill. 2hr
Walk 5. 10/11 May – Ampthill to Ridgmont. 2hr 30
Walk 6. 24/25 May – Ridgmont to Hulcot. 1hr 30
Walk 7. 07/08 June – Hulcot to Up Shelton. 1hr 30
Walk 8. 21/22 June – Up Shelton to Bromham. 2hr 30
Walk 9. 05/06 July – Bromham to Pavenham. 2hr
Walk 10. 19/20 July – Pavenham to Brickhill. 2hr
Walk 11. 02/03 Aug – Brickhill to Elstow. 1hr 30
Walk 12. 16/17 Aug – Elstow to Haynes. 2hr 30
Walk 13. 30/31 Aug – Haynes to Shillington. 2hr 15
Walk 14. 13/14 Sept – Shillington to Hexton 2hr
Walk 15. 27/28 Sept – Hexton to Warden Hill 2hr
Walk 16. 04/05 Oct – Warden hill to Up Sundon 2hr