As part of the Cambridge Word Festival, I went to a poetry reading by Wendy Cope. Although I had heard her name and read one or two of her poems before, I was largely unfamiliar with her work. Needless to say, I left the evening a convert, having bought four of her books, which she kindly signed. I also went to a reading by Ben Okri. He is as inspiring and thought-provoking in "real life" as in his poetry and stories. I was delighted to get the chance to meet him and have him sign some of his books as well.

Here is an extract of the poem I wrote, entitled "Wendy Cope: Lasso Poet":

Her famous biting wit
With which she's known to poke
Is wicked when it's writ
But wickeder when spoke

To read the full poem, go to:
www.waynevisser.com/poem_wendy_cope_lasso_poet.htm.