St Albans Cathedral is delighted to announce the appointment of Dan Simpson as its first ever poet in residence. As a writer and performer, Dan regularly produces work inspired by history and place and this residency will see him produce a collection of poems inspired by centuries of history.

Speaking of his plans for his residency, Dan said “St Albans Cathedral is a place of welcome, looking openly to the world - something that is much needed in our current times. I am thrilled to have been appointed poet in residence at this incredibly important religious and historic site and I look forward to working with the local and wider communities who know and love the Cathedral. I hope people will take part in our workshops, read the poems I’ll write about this great place and join us for some unique events. Whether online or in person, I’m excited about the opportunity to respond to this special church.”

Throughout his residency, which forms part of the cathedral’s National Lottery Heritage Fund supported project, Dan will use the cathedral building, its history and its characters as the inspiration for a new collection of poems and an exhibition. He will also be hosting a number of mass digital poetry workshops for all age groups to enjoy, using the Cathedral as the inspiration for their own writing. The first of these workshops will take place on Monday 26 October, aimed at families and children aged eight and over.