Returning to my hometown of Horwich always stirs something deep inside. The familiar streets, the Lancashire air, the sense of roots that never quite let go. On Thursday 5th February, I made the trip back not just to visit, but to step onto a new stage, my first time performing at the Sparrows Poets & Wordsmiths Open Mic at Sparrows Rum Bar on Winter Hey Lane.
Hosted by the welcoming Rachel Appleton, these evenings run on the first Thursday of each month (with the next ones continuing the tradition), starting at 7:30pm. Everyone is invited; whether to share your own words, listen quietly, or simply enjoy the rum and the company. Walking into Sparrows Rum Bar felt like coming home in more ways than one. The cosy atmosphere, the buzz of anticipation, the friendly faces, it was the perfect setting for spoken word.
Here are some great pictures of an enjoyable evening… https://facebook.com/rachel.appleton.927
As someone who’s performed at various open mics across the region (from Leeds to Kendal and beyond), I was excited, this was new territory, but in my own backyard. I took my turn at the mic, sharing some of my poems from recent work, including pieces from my anthology Imprints. The audience listened with genuine warmth. The night featured a lovely mix: heartfelt verses, humorous observations, moments of quiet reflection, and even some music woven in. It reminded me why these gatherings matter, they build community, one poem at a time.
Sharing the evening with friends like Louise, Robert, and Amanda turned it into a proper reunion. We laughed, we listened, we raised a glass (or two) to words and to Horwich itself. Driving away afterwards, I felt a surge of pride for this town that raised me and for the creative spark thriving right here on Winter Hey Lane. Rachel Appleton deserves huge credit for nurturing this space. Her hosting is generous and inclusive, making sure newcomers feel as valued as regulars. If you’re in or near Horwich, put the first Thursday on your calendar; these nights are special. Perform, spectate, or just soak it up; you’re welcome either way.
This wasn’t my first poetry reading, far from it, but it was my first at Sparrows, and it felt like a beautiful full circle. Horwich, you’ve still got that magic. Thank you for the warm welcome and for letting me share my words on home ground.
Until the next one, keep writing, keep listening, keep those sparrows flying.
Peter Kay
peterkaywordspace.co.uk
Details:
- Sparrows Rum Bar, Winter Hey Lane, Horwich
- First Thursday of the month – 7:30pm start
