30164/1A VOICE from Australia could be heard booming across the Warminster Assembly Rooms on Monday. Australian poet Mick Leigh, of King Alfred Way, Winsley, spoke to members of the Women's Institute about his country and his work.

Mr Leigh was speaking as part of the WI's celebration of Australia Day on January 26.

He said: "So many people have been to Australia or have got kids there, so Australia Day is always well supported.

"I talk about my country but also encourage the audience to think about their own heritage and traditions.

"There isn't enough patriotism in England so it is nice to try and encourage that.

"One lady came up to me and said my poems are so full of life and emotion, which was really nice."

Mr Leigh has lived in England for several years and has given talks in schools and meetings across the district. He has recently released a book of children's poetry called, The Big Book of Bonza Poems which is available from his website, www.mickleigh.com