THE birth 147 years ago of Bromsgrove's world famous poet and scholar Alfred Housman was celebrated in traditional style last Friday with readings from his works around his statue in the High Street.

The celebration was actually two days premature as Housman was born in Bromsgrove on March 26, 1859. A small gathering, including distinguished guests representing several organisations in the district, were welcomed by Jim Page, the chairman of the Housman Society, which organised the event.

He especially welcomed Chris Edwards, the relatively new headmaster at Bromsgrove School, which Housman attended in the 1870s as a foundation scholar.

Mr Edwards, who admitted Housman was a particular favourite, read two poems from A Shropshire Lad - perhaps the author's best known collection.

Mr Page touched on the fact that Housman Hall, the former Perry Hall hotel now a sixth form study centre for Bromsgrove School, had recently been opened by Colin Dexter, of Inspector Morse fame. He said at the time he had found it moving to think of Alfred and his six younger bothers and sister being brought up in Perry Hall, the family's home.

"The connection was very immediate and the realisation that it is to be valued and used as a place of learning to honour AE Housman is indeed marvellous, for the house and gardens were very special to the Housman family," he said. During the course of his speech Mr Page took the opportunity to touch on other current local topics.

These included the restoration of St John's parish church, the Artrix and the refurbished library in New Road, which he said he was delighted to be able to report is a big improvement. Later, guests enjoyed a buffet lunch at the Council House hosted by council chairman Jill Dyer.