LANCASTER novelist George Green will step up to the microphone tomorrow (Friday) with a new short story on a theme close to many people's hearts.

Always fun and entertaining, George (pictured left) has taught creative writing in Lancaster for 10 years, concentrating mainly on shorter fiction.

He will feature with his latest offering at Spotlight in the Yorkshire House from 8.30pm.

Also billed to appear at the monthly showcase of local literary and musical talent is Simon Baker, who made his Spotlight debut last year after impressing at an open mic' session with his poetry.

This month he reveals his prose side with a new short story loosely based on incidents recalled from his childhood.

Completing the literary line-up will be Dave Patton, who has been travelling from St Helens to Spotlight for several years, and Donald Read, whose poems are a mixture of attacking social criticism, street-wise observation and provocative comment.

The song-writing of Paddy Garrigan occupies the opening music spot with themes such as frustration, under achievement and the dubious existence of God.

The Collectable Jennifers will round off the night, performing a mix of piano jazz and surreal poetry on their return to Spotlight.

Compered by Helen Stephens, the parade kicks off at 8.30pm with an open mic session from 8.45pm to 9.15pm.