DAVID A E Hunt has lived and taught in many parts of the world.

A gifted wordsmith and music composer, he retired from a career in public school education to Cumbria several years ago, putting pen to paper and producing a veritable stream of highly thought of poetry.

He confesses to being a compulsive versifier and writes poems most days.

Persuaded by friends to publish his work, Thursday, January 18 (6pm-8pm) sees the launch of his much anticipated lyrical offering - Inklings: a Medley of Poems at Yew Tree Barn, Low Newton, when David will also read from his collection.

His vibrant verse covers a wide range of topics includes dandelions, Tibet, old age, the weather, Donald Trump, mountains, Doubting Thomas, terrorism, Assisi, litter, Mother Theresa, bankers and hellfire.

He highlights irritating cliches and the platitudes of everyday conversation, along with irreverent digs at the Establishment.

His son Justin, a professional artist, has illustrated many of the poems, including the front cover of Inklings.

These days based near Cartmel, David was born in Sussex, educated at Marlborough and - after two years' National Service in the army - at Christ's College, Cambridge, where he read English and history. On his travels he meet his wife Judy in India.

David - who is a member of the Cumbria Poets Association - has taught at schools across the UK, Rhodesia and India and has lectured in Europe, Africa, India and the United States.

He has also performed poetry in many locations, including Indian fort palaces, British embassies and cruise ships.