I HAVE been researching William Shakespeare for a number of years now.

And I recently discovered that he visited Warrington in April 1611.

He is supposed to have written this poem to mark his visit.

Can any readers or historians back up whether it is genuine or not?

To yonder as I travelled North West I findth a town that is the best Warrington ye town with smiles befound and gay My visit occurred on Thursday, it’s market day Situated between Liverpoole and Manchester I recommend the town to any an investor It’s market sells meat, cloth and lace This becometh thy’d wondrous place The lush green fields surround, they take your breath From the farms of Orford up to Penketh One’s folly shall be redeemed here for ever to adore Venice and Verona, I like Warrington much much more Before leaving for home, I had ale and luncheon in the Barley Mow I reflected and I pondered, did I really want to go?

ALAN KILVINGTON
London