SUNDAY saw the launch of the F.W. Harvey Society at the Memorial Hall in Yorkley, not far from the poet's former home in Harvey Lane.

A special guest was Eileen Griffiths, Will Harvey's daughter.  Also present were Eileen's daughter Elaine and husband Peter, and grandson Andrew with his fiancee Rosie. 

More than 70 people, some with family connections with the poet, attended the event. 

Roger Deeks told the gathering that the aim of the society was to promote the life and work of Will Harvey, and in the longer term to support the development of the arts in Yorkley and the Dean.

The biographer and author Anthony Boden then recited a piece entitled 'Eileen Anne' which was dedicated by Will Harvey to his daughter in 1922. He presented Eileen with a specially framed copy of the poem.

Whitecross School head boy Ben Horton and his brother Sam both read examples of Harvey's work chosen by themselves. There was also a recital from local poet Meryl Pugh.

Afterwards Elaine Jackson told the society: "I would like to thank you for such a lovely afternoon. My mother enjoyed it so much, she met many old friends she hadn't seen for many years. My husband, son and his fiancee were made to feel very welcome too." Mr Melville Watts also expressed his sincere enjoyment and thanks to the society.

Chairman of the Forest of Dean Family History Society and F.W. Harvey Society committee member Steve Cooper closed the afternoon's proceedings with a short speech of thanks.