SALFORD HONOURS 'THE BARD' WITH THE FREEDOM OF THE CITY

On Wednesday 19th July, the renowned poetic genius that is Dr John Cooper Clarke, is to be awarded the prestigious honour of the Freedom of the City of Salford at a ceremony within the council chambers at Swinton Civic Centre.

Our very own Tony Flynn has received a personal invitation to attend as one of a handful of Clarky's chosen guests.

John's rise to prominence came during the punk and post-punk era of the 1970s and 1980s. Sporting a distinctive appearance, with his lanky frame, dark sunglasses, and shock of black hair, Clarke became a recognizable figure on the UK's alternative scene. His performances were legendary, combining his sharp-tongued delivery with a punk rock sensibility that captivated audiences wherever he went.

One of his most famous works, "Evidently Chickentown," is a powerful and profanity-laden piece that resonated with a generation. It shed light on the struggles of working-class life, punctuating the reality of the daily grind with poignant expletives. The raw honesty of Clarke's poetry struck a chord with people from all walks of life, cementing his place as the "Bard of Salford."

Aside from his electrifying performances, John Cooper Clarke's poetry collections garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following. Works like "Ten Years in an Open Necked Shirt" and "Snap, Crackle & Bop" showcased his versatility, tackling a myriad of themes ranging from social issues to love and everything in between. His language was dynamic, combining urban slang, dark humor, and a keen eye for detail.

Throughout his career, Clarke collaborated with various artists and musicians, including the likes of Joy Division, Elvis Costello, and Arctic Monkeys, among others. His influence reached beyond the poetry world and into music, where his spoken-word performances added a distinctive layer to songs and tracks.

Despite battling personal struggles, including battles with drug addiction, Dr Clarke continued to inspire with his writing and performances. His resilience and unwavering passion for poetry earned him a place as a cultural icon but for those who truly know him, he is foremost just 'Clarky', a good friend and true Salford Lad.

We will be at hand of course to capture the occasion on video for prosperity and I am sure Tony will be writing a full no holds barred account of the after party.

The good Doctor has also very kindly offered a number of items of signed merch to be raffled in order to raise funds for our upcoming VIP (Very Important Pensioner) Winter Warmer this coming November.