Poetry in motion 2010 

Swindon poem omnibus launched in Wharf Green

 

A book of poetry written in collaboration with passengers on Swindon buses was launched today, with all net proceeds being donated to Prospect Hospice.

The collection of poems, entitled Swindon Poem Omnibus, is the product of Thamesdown Transport’s ‘poetry in motion’ campaign, which took place last summer.

 

Tony Hillier, Swindon’s resident community poet, took to the buses in July last year to share poetry with passengers and transform their thoughts and feelings into verse.

Tony said: “People shared their thoughts and reflections on all sorts of topics; we ended up with poems about the purpose of their journey, how they felt about the town and their memories. A few of the travellers had previously engaged in poetic activities and we’ve ended up with some lovely pieces."

Paul Jenkins, Managing Director of Thamesdown Transport, said: “The project was inspired by an initiative on the London Underground that saw verses from famous poems being displayed at stations to cheer passengers up. Tony approached us with the idea and we were intrigued. The poems we’ve ended up with are fantastic and offer real insight.

The poetry book is now available priced £3.99 from Thamesdown Transport’s travel shop in Fleming Way (near Debenhams).

 

Poetry on Buses Picture Gallery