Saturday 1 February marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of The Cumberland Bard: Robert Anderson. Born in Carlisle in 1770, Anderson published his most famous collection, Ballads in the Cumberland Dialect in 1805. This volume included many of his best-known poems and songs, both original and inspired by the songs and folktales of earlier times. He was particularly adept at bringing to life the stories and tales of the real people of Cumberland and the Lake District.
Some of these characters will be brought to life at a special free concert being held at Carlisle Cathedral on the anniversary. Local singer-songwriters Dave Camlin and Steve Wharton will be joined by Dr Sue Allan and members of the Lakeland Dialect Society in this celebration of Anderson’s works. The programme includes songs and readings of some of his best-known pieces alongside some lesser known works.
The venue is a fitting location for a celebration as Anderson was buried in the cathedral in 1883 and there is a memorial in the grounds to mark the spot; another memorial to the poet can be found inside as part of the cathedral’s ‘Poet’s Corner.
The concert takes place on Saturday 1 February from 12.30pm to 1.30pm and entry is free. All are welcome.