A BAND of Otley bards have taken inspiration from an iconic literary work to create their own collective masterpiece.

The Wharfedale wordsmiths have written a parody of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales set in the time of Covid, that acts as a commentary on modern times.Chevin Rouge - Slow Canter Merry Tales which will be performed as a showcase at Otley Courthouse at 8 pm on Friday August 27.

Ben Lowe, who came up with the idea in September 2019 and edited the piece, said: “It was in the distant days before Covid that our imagination stirred, noting floods and drought and overseas wars. When the pandemic struck, the collection became horribly apt, and even more than in unmasked days a welcome and humorous diversion. Do come! Too long we’ve been locked down, our journey stalled; but we hope our tales tickle more than they appal."

Chevin Rouge features 19 original poetic tales, all of which range from witty, moving and lively, to satirical, thought-provoking and bawdy. The poets performing will be Terry O’Connor, Pam Scobie, Sue Butler, Hannah Stone, Mike Baynhan, David Cattanach, Liz McPherson, Gail Mosley and Ben Lowe. For more information visit otleycourthouse.org.uk