THE Black Pepper Carvery in Ledbury was filled with aficionados of verse for two hours of rhyme and reason from the Ledbury Scribes.

The intimate venue led to a friendly, informal atmosphere, and audience members were invited to recite their own efforts as well as readings from members.

Highlights of the two-hour show included Muriel on her guitar, with tales of holiday woe in Egypt caused by the need for frequent trips to the toilet and Brenda's amusing look at The Tart, complete with deciduous underwear.

Visitors from as far afield as Hull reminisced in verse form on the previous night's drinking in Ledbury, complete with memories of the recital they didn't see due to being sidetracked by ale.

The subjects and styles ranged from comical to serious, from the events of September 11 to the trials and tribulations of a wasp flying in an open window.

The bar was open throughout the evening and the attendees seemed more than happy to drink, laugh and recite along with the Scribes.

An enjoyable evening had by all.

Phill Tromans