Northeastengland Stories

"The Alnwick Altar of Ink" is more than just a tribute to a world-famous bookshop; it is a love letter to a living piece of Northumbrian history. Written by myself, as a member of the Barter Books family, the poem captures the unique evolution of the Alnwick railway station-from its Victorian debut in 1887 to its rebirth as a sanctuary for readers. Through rhythmic verses, the poem guides the reader under the magnificent vaulted ceilings, past the steady rhythm of the model trains, and into the warmth of the original coal fireplaces. It honors the enduring legacy of Mary and Stuart Manley, whose vision saved the station and who still reside just steps away, ensuring the shop remains as personal as a private home.

In the North East city of Newcastle, England, Alex leaves without a trace. 6 years later, her family are still non the wiser what happened to her or whether she's still alive, but secrets have a habit of being uncovered..

This poem is a sharp, Northumbrian-style roast celebrating the daily friction of life in the Barter Books cafe. The Vibe: High-energy workplace banter. It's written for a colleague who gives as good as they get, focusing on the specific "charms" of a kitchen worker who enjoys being a loud-voiced nuisance. The Conflict: It pits the busy "front-of-house" hustle-navigating the station maze-against the kitchen-side antics of Rubber Johnny. It captures the struggle of trying to do a job while a "voice like a gander" follows you around the building. The Roast: The heart of the poem is the relentless teasing of the "Spit and Polish" scalp. It treats his bald head like a health and safety hazard-a glare so bright it could leave the staff and tourists "purple-blind."