Cottam creative’s spoken word open mic night is a hit in Preston

Becca Jaye on stage at Chain House, where it all began

A Cottam creative is running a popular spoken word open night mic in Preston.

Becca Jaye – who is well known in the city as a founding member of Preston Beer Girls and the entrepreneur behind Cottam Candles – has launched The S Werd.

Becca started The S Werd in November last year after a boozy conversation one night in Chain House Brewing Co. Taproom.

Becca – who is also known as Screwps – said: “The S Werd started out as phone note ramblings. I wasn’t sure what I was going to do with them but I was considering a stand up routine.

“After a few too many beers on a night out in Chain House I was complaining of nowhere to spout the words, when Alisha the tap room manager suggested we do it there. When the owner, Ryan, agreed – we were booked.”

The S Werd now has a residency every other month at Chain House, and has also been touring the alternative months at venues including The Ferret.

Each event is free, with everyone and anyone welcome to share their spoken word, poetry, prose and limericks.

Becca Jaye on stage at The Ferret — The Ferret also hosts The S Werd

Becca continued: “Every night has been a hit since the start, with between ten and 15 people taking to the stage.

“You can expect to hear about funny dick pic experiences, texts from the ex, or online dating stories.

“Once, we also had an act use their final piece of the night to come out to their friends. It was an amazing thing to be a part of.”

The next The S Werd takes place on Tuesday (16 April) at Chain House in Market Street West, off Friargate. This will be followed by a night at The Ferret on Tuesday 14 May.

Anyone interested in taking part can simply turn up, find Becca, and get their name on the list.

Speaking about the journey so far, Becca said: “I had no idea what this would become. At every event I meet new acts and audience members who I can’t help but fall in love with as they get so involved.

“I hope to take The S Werd way across the UK this year, and maybe beyond.

“I’d invite anyone to come along – whether heartfelt or funny, memories or made up, this is your chance to have the floor.”

To find out more, follow @the.s.werd on Instagram.

Subscribe: Keep in touch directly with the latest headlines from Blog Preston, join our WhatsApp channel and subscribe for our twice-a-week email newsletter. Both free and direct to your phone and inbox.

This story was made possible by support from you, our readers and a host of organisations in the city, through our Crowdfund Lancashire appeal, which unlocked support from the Lancashire Culture and Sport Fund provided by Lancashire County Council. You can see all our coverage and, if you know of an event or arts project in the city we should be covering, send details to contactus@blogpreston.co.uk.