A group of eight strangers who became firm friends after taking part in creative writing classes in Deal have composed a poetry book for charity.

'Love, Life, Loss' is a 120-page anthology by Irving Benjamin, Jill Burford, Fay Franklin, Ian Hindmarch, Georgina Koubel, Paul Shaw, Phil Welton and Joanna West.

Among them is a former police officer, retired surgeon, musician and social worker.

They met at a creative writing class led by author and teacher Anstey Spraggan at The Astor Theatre in Deal around two years ago.

But despite their differing background, one group member soon recognised that their passion for prose was not the only thing that bound them.

In the foreword, Georgina Koubel, writes: "Although we focused largely on prose, after a while I became aware that a number of us were also writing poetry.

"Many of these poems struck me with their authenticity and power.

"I thought it was a shame that these words should be shut away in the darkness of notebooks and computers without ever having the opportunity to see the light of day."

"Some were funny, others captured significant life moments, told sad or beautiful tales or held up a mirror to concern and the wonders of our world.

"I thought it was a shame that these words should be shut away in the darkness of notebooks and computers without ever having the opportunity to see the light of day."

The rest of the group agreed, with the Deal Poets Society formed.

They have met regularly these past 18 months to hear each others' poems, give feedback and offer support.

After many hours of work, they have self funded the printing of 300 books meaning 100% of the sales will go to the Pilgrims Hospice, a charity they unanimously wanted to support.

Jill Burford said: "We're such different people but through a shared interest in writing we've become firm friends.

"If we'd have met on a bus it wouldn't have happened.

"It's been such a joy, we're talking about making plans to do a second one."

The anthology is split into sections for each author and the cover painting is by Francesca Howard.

It was launched at The Lighthouse in Walmer on Wednesday, February 26 raising £210, in addition to £750 already donated via a JustGiving site.

Less than 100 are left. It costs £5.99 and is available from Pilgrim's Hospice shops or the poets themselves.

It is also hoped to be on sale at The Deal Bookshop soon.

To donate, click here or visit justgiving.com/fundraising/dealpoetssociety

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