A WRITER and musician from Worcester is to stage an all-day busk to raise funds for a cash-strapped city bookshop.
Script Haven – situated at the top of High Street opposite the Elgar statue – is the brainchild of former Worcestershire Poet Laureate and entrepreneur Leena Batchelor.
The shop uniquely combines selling books with poetry readings and signings, while serving refreshments in a friendly, relaxed environment. The premises have links with writing royalty, for back in the 19th century, the author Charles Dickens stayed here while on a visit to Worcester.
However, a worsening economic climate is starting to take its toll, hence Ms Batchelor’s appeal for a helping hand to give the cash flow a bit of a boost. And that’s why writer and musician John Phillpott, of Battenhall, Worcester, has offered his services on Saturday November 22.
Former newspaper journalist John said: “Script Haven is an incredibly worthwhile venture, highlighting the work of poets, writers and other creatives who are given the chance by Leena to present their work in a positive, welcoming space. Over the last couple of years since Script Haven was formed, many people who possibly wouldn’t otherwise have a platform, have been encouraged to basically get up and give it a go.
“And that’s why I’m doing an all-day busk to raise funds on Saturday November 22. I’ve been a guitarist and harmonica player since my teenage days, having down the years variously played blues, country, folk, period pop and rock, plus a smattering of classic jazz. I intend to be a kind of ‘human jukebox’. Visitors will be able to request a number – not a specific number, it must be stressed – in one of those styles, and I will do my best to comply in exchange for a donation dropped in the bucket.
“Please come along to Script Haven on the day and listen to the music, while you browse the bookshelves and enjoy a hot or cold drink. This is a worthy cause, a landmark innovation for Worcester, and definitely worth preserving for the years to come.”
