INTRO The people’s poet is coming our way

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS OF EXETER’S CULTURAL LIFE

IN OTHER WORDS

Poet, rock star, comedian and all-round cool dude, John Cooper Clarke has been observing the world around him since the 1970s, in his unique, rapid-fi re delivery. His poetry collection 10 Years in An Open Necked Shirt, released in the 1980s, is one of the biggest selling poetry books in the UK.

Today, JCC is as relevant and vibrant as ever and his infl uence just as visible on today’s pop culture. Aside from his trademark ‘look’ continuing to resonate with fashionistas young and old, and his poetry being included on the national curriculum syllabus, his eff ect on modern music is huge, most notably with his collaborations with the Arctic Monkeys.

The career of the ‘people’s poet’ has been diverse career to say the least. His latest live show is a mix of classic verse, extraordinary new material, ponderings on modern life, good honest gags, riff s and chat – a chance to witness a living legend at the top of his game.

Dr John Cooper Clarke will be performing at Exeter Corn Exchange on 29 March; 8pm start (doors open 7.15pm); Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

Get growing...

ST BRIDGET NURSERIES share their tips on how to get your garden Spring ready

Spring is all about new beginnings and since gardening is a great healer for the mind, body and soul there’s no excuse for not getting outside. We grow a large proportion of what we sell, so our garden centre planterias really are the best place for local and fresh plants. Whether you are an expert or novice there’s something we can all enjoy in the garden this weekend.

BEGINNER GARDENERS Plant some summer flowering bulbs. Look out for a Dahlia, Gladioli or Lily and buy some bulb fibre compost before heading home. Bulbs can be planted in the ground (such as a sunny border) or in pots. Simply follow the instructions on the packet. If you are planting in the ground, loosen soil around the hole and place bulb fibre compost below and above the bulb to help with root growth.

INTERMEDIATE GARDENERS Lift and divide old perennials. Perennials are plants that grow, flower and then die back until the following growing season. Many perennials can form a big clump after 2 to 3 years (like sedums, agapanthus and crocosmias). To rejuvenate, it is worth lifting them out of the ground with a fork and then splitting the clump into smaller sections using either your hands, two forks or a spade. Re-plant where you want the sections to grow.

EXPERT GARDENERS During March you should prune your bush and climbing roses. Ensure your secateurs are clean and in working order before you start.

Our garden centres have something for everyone whether you are a novice gardener or an expert. Our staff are on hand to assist you and with a restaurant at each centre, your family can enjoy a full day out. ■