YOU’VE heard of cheese and wine evenings. Now the latest craze in Oxford is perfume and poetry.

City-based poet Claire Trévien has teamed up with London perfumier Lizzie Ostrom, to run Penning Perfumes events.

At each location, poets working in a range of different styles are given a sample perfume and then asked to write a piece in response which will be read to the public.

Among those taking part in the event at Oxford’s Albion Beatnik Bookstore, Walton Street, tonight is Dan Holloway.

The 40-year-old, who lives in Chipping Norton and works in Oxford, said: “I have written about smells, but not anything inspired by a specific smell, so that was completely different.

“We got little sample bottles sent through the post, then we could do what we wanted.”

The event is supported by Arts Council England. Entry is £5