‘Poetrython’ aims to raise £20,000 for Blackburn Cathedral appeal (From This Is Lancashire)

‘Poetrython’ aims to raise £20,000 for Blackburn Cathedral appeal

1:31pm Friday 19th October 2012 in News

THE Dean of Blackburn and comedian Ted Robbins have formed what they describe as “an unusual alliance”.

But they also believe the partnership will have a successful result as they take part in a 24-hour poetry reading marathon to raise funds for the cathedral’s £3.5million appeal.

The Dean, the Very Rev Christopher Armstrong, is joining forces with radio presenter Ted for the “poetrython” which is to be staged both in the cathedral and at various sites around Blackburn town centre, starting on Thursday, November 1 at midday and finishing 24 hours later.

The Dean said yesterday: “The idea came to me from the Dean of Worcester who did a similar exercise several years ago.

“It should be an exciting event at which we hope to raise £20,000.”

Mr Armstrong added that he was grateful to the BBC who are partnering the event through Radio Lancashire where Ted is presenter of a regular morning show.

Ted, 57, said he was delighted to be taking part in the marathon, even though it meant trying to stay awake for more than 24 hours as he would be presenting his programme on both days.

He added: “I have been in love with poetry all my life and am looking forward to reading some of my favourite works and many others.”

Ted, who is famous for playing Den Perry in the TV series Phoenix Nights with Peter Kay, will be found at several well-known spots in the town on the Thursday afternoon including The Mall, the market, railway station, fire station, hospital and possibly the Royal Mail HQ.

Later he will join the Dean in the cathedral where more readings will take place throughout the night. Radio Lancashire will also continue to broadcast.

Sponsorship is being sought, with supporters being asked to sponsor a poem or lines of a poem at £1 a line or an amount of their own choice for the whole poem.

Sponsorship forms are available at the cathedral or to download on line at www. blackburncathedral.com or donate at www. justgiving.com