is a Tamworth-based poet. He was commissionsed to write this piece in his capacity as instigator and project leader of the Poetry Trail. The piece is located next to the dovecote, behind the public library, on the Hall Court.
The poem is written from the standpoint of a dove, kept in the dovecote in the 17th Century. At that time, doves were kept to provide fresh meat throughout the winter. Fledgling doves are known as "squabs".
In Squab, the titular dove observes the tithes being brought into the tithe barn, then witnesses the Michaelmas hiring fair. One of the biggest events of its type in the country, up to 3,000 labourers would gather from as far as 30 miles away to seek employment through the winter and into the next growing season.
For more information on Malcolm go to www.maldewhirst.com.
