Region's homelessness chronicled by 100 poets
Maureen WatersOne hundred poets have contributed to an anthology about homelessness in their region to raise money for rough sleepers.
Words on a NE Street, compiled by Andrew Mears, features 100 poems by writers in the north-east of England, which has some of the worst rates of regional homelessness in England.
Mr Mears, a writer who lives in Newcastle, said the most poignant pieces are from those who had experienced rough sleeping.
"The book in itself isn't going to stop homelessness, but I hope it's going to help people think about it more," he said.
He said the 40th anniversary of Live Aid, the landmark 1985 concert which drew together musicians at Wembley for charity, inspired him to create the anthology.
He put out a call on social media in February for contributors.
"It was amazing the amount of people who wanted to get involved and I felt really honoured," Mr Mears said.
Andrew MearsHe also said he did not anticipate the amount of work that came with dealing with hundreds of different contributors.
Mr Mears said: "When you're thinking about other people's work it's got to be right, you know? All the punctuation and everything.
"I'm glad I'm retired I wouldn't have been able to do it if I wasn't retired."
He thanked friends who helped get the book formatted, edited and spell-checked.
He also said funds from the book will go to "small groups who are dedicated to go out in all weathers to help feed and clothe those who find themselves in need of human kindness".
Profits will be split between Newcastle Helping Street Friends, Emmaus North East and Heart (NE) C.I.C.
The book was launched at an event at Wallsend Community Hub and Library on Friday.