A BOLTON cleric has turned bard, with the publication of his first book of poems.

The Rev Gordon Harper has drawn on his life in the ministry as well as his love of the town's surrounding moors to pen the 35 poems.

And Mr Harper even financed the printing of the book after his poetry was given the thumbs up by members of his church's congregation.

He said: "I didn't think anybody would be interested in my poetry but at a church meeting people asked me to read some out.

"The reaction was quite good so I decided to publish my work. Poetry brings me a great sense of satisfaction. It helps show who I am and what I believe in.

"My work as a minister also means that I am a keen observer of people which has helped in my poetry.

"I'm not a very good entrepeneur but at least I have covered all my expenses."

The works, including Hospital Visit and The Telephone Call, are taken from his experience as a minister, while others such as Lambing Time draw on his love of the moorland surrounding Bolton.

And he admits it is only in the last four years that he has started to write in verse.

He added: "I was born and brought up in Salford so anyone who read poetry there was considered to be a sissy.

"I would like to think that my poetry reflects my faith and my love of God's creation."

And now the vicar, who retired in June from St Peter's Church, Halliwell, is set to combine his two great loves - painting and poetry - in his next project.

He said: "I would hope to have produced the work within the next 18 months but I would have to try to get it printed by a publishing house because it would just prove too expensive."

His book, The Cellist and Other Poems, by Gordon Harper, is available from Wesley Owen Books and Music on Deansgate, Bolton, priced at £3.

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