Bookshops and libraries have joined forces to turn the spotlight on Bradford's live literature scene.

They have teamed up to put together a colourful new glossy leaflet, called Literature Live in Bradford, giving details of events happening in the district this spring.

And they believe Bradford could be one of the first cities in the country to promote literary events in this way.

Tom Palmer, co-ordinator of the Reader2Reader literacy project which is based at Bradford Central Library, said the aim of the initiative was to give a comprehensive run-down of readings, recitals, talks, workshops and other literary events.

"There's a burgeoning literature scene in Bradford and it's great for all the different venues to get together like this. It really puts Bradford on the map," he said.

"It is available all over the city, basically in all the venues that are part of the community."

Events included in the first issue of the leaflet, which will be published quarterly, range from a session on writing rock music lyrics to another in a series of poetry confessionals.

A highlight of the programme promises to be a songwriting masterclass by Justin Sullivan, front man for veteran Bradford-based rock band New Model Army.

Justin, who has been responsible for a string of hit singles and albums over the past two decades, will talk about the craft of writing lyrics at Bradford Central Library from 7.30pm on April 29. Tickets are £5 and available by ringing (01274) 753666.

Other events include a talk at 7pm tomorrow (TUES APR 13) by author and former North Yorkshire schools inspector Gervase Phinn at Waterstone's; a demonstration by Lynne Robinson of techniques from her new book about Pilates at Dillons at 2.30pm on Saturday (APR 17), and an illustrated talk by photographer Don McCullin about his new book India at Waterstone's at 7pm on April 28.

Next month will see events featuring poets Jean Binta Breeze, Ian Duhig and UA Fanthorpe, novelist Helen Dunmore and BBC correspondent Peter White. The leaflet also highlights screenings of films based on literature, including The Thin Red Line, Romeo and Juliet and Shakespeare In Love.

For more details of Literature Live in Bradford, ring Tom on (01274) 754096.

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