This is the text of the annual report given to the annual general meeting of the John Clare Society on Saturday 11 July 2026 by Dr Mike Mecham, Chair of the Society. The text can also be downloaded as a PDF. WELCOME A warm welcome to you all to this lovely and now familiar church of St Botolph’s for another AGM, and Festival, of the … Continue reading John Clare Society AGM 2026: Chair’s report
The annual John Clare Society festival will be held in Helpston from Friday 10th to Sunday 12th July 2026. The theme will be the family. There will again be a full programme of activities involving lectures, walks, entertainment and poetry readings. The John Clare Cottage will be open throughout the main day of the festival, Saturday 11 July. A highlight on that day will be … Continue reading John Clare Society Festival 2026
Roll up, roll up, not for the fair but for something just as much fun because of the variety of events on offer, all in one place, Helpston, over two Summer days. The celebrations start on Friday 11th July 2025 at St. Botolph’s Church when the children of the John Clare Primary School gather to bring their Midsummer Cushions and to receive prizes in the annual Poetry … Continue reading John Clare Society Festival 2025
This year we are having a two-day Festival, starting on Friday July 12th with the traditional laying of the Midsummer Cushions on John Clare’s grave, from 1pm. The entire John Clare Primary School will be going to St. Botolph’s Church in class groups and everyone is invited to attend – parents, grandparents, carers, friends, siblings, anyone else living locally, and visitors. It is always a happy occasion. The … Continue reading John Clare Society Festival 2024
The John Clare Society 