A two-year project is set to bring books and poetry to life across the region, thanks to Arts Council funding.

The Words Aloud project, run by Calderdale libraries, is being put together by the newly-appointed reader in residence, Craig Bradley and poet in residence, Sarah Hymas. They intend to bring literature events to the region's 27 libraries as well as more unusual venues including pubs, cafes, and even onto the streets.

"You can enjoy books any where - even at the bus stop," said Craig.

"Imagine being on the bus and having someone quote a spot of poetry to you. How great would that be? "We want to bring the written words out of books into lunchtime, afternoon and evening readings, discussions and workshops, celebrating local and national writers," added Sarah.

Craig, who lives in Huddersfield but is originally from Halifax, is a Huddersfield University lecturer. He's also a former gravedigger and "roadie" for the Bay City Rollers.

Sarah, who lives in Lancaster, has worked as a journalist, cook and gardener and now runs writing workshops in prisons, schools and community groups.

The project will be run on a part-time basis. It is funded by an Arts Council grant of £48,000 which covers both salaries for two years and the cost of all events.

Calderdale principal librarian, Brian Murphy said this was the first time Calderdale had had a reader and poet in residence.

"This is great news for Calderdale and we can look forward to lots of exciting things happening across the region."