ON FRIDAY, September 17, a few days before International Peace Day and the eve of the first match of the Rugby World Cup, local artist Pauline Williams and therapist and writer Fran Smith hosted an evening of words, songs and art at Foxy’s Delicatessen Penarth.

Fran hosted an open mic with poets travelling from Penarth, the Valleys and Cardiff to read their poems inspired by rugby and peace. There was folk music from the gentle voice of Philippa Irvin singing a range of songs from Joni Mitchell to the Clash contrasted by the rich voice of baritone Richard Parry accompanied by Chris Glynn on piano for a very enjoyable bistro style evening.

Norman Hopkins sang and played the ukulele and Fritz O Skennick played an impromptu John Lennon’s Imagine on the piano.

Sian Fox made a delicious curry and cheese boards to compliment fine wines and beers and a raffle in memory of Godfrey raised £75 for The Lasutho Trust which Mary Anne Marsden received on their behalf with thanks.

This evening was also the first anniversary of these popular evenings and cake was shared by all. Almost £400 has been raised for charities; Life Boats, Water Aid, Barnardos and The Lasutho Trust.

Pauline’s bold rugby prints can be viewed and bought on paulinewilliamsart.com.

In 2016 Richard Parry and Chris Glynn are heading up a wonderful adventure following in the footsteps of poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge across Wales, for more information please visit coleridgeinwales.org.

Fran Smith will be reading poems today (October 8) at Cardiff Central Library on National Poetry Day and back again at Foxy’s on October 9, at 5pm reading Helen Ford’s poems in memory of Helen who sadly died last year. You can find out more about Fran Smith by visiting her website at francessmithwilliams.co.uk.

Their next evening is planned for December 4.