Homelessness charity benefits from poetry book success

Spoken word artist Jack Horner, better known as Leon The Pig Farmer, has made a donation of £250 to homelessness charity Emmaus Mossley, raised from sales of his first self-published book.

Jack visited Emmaus Mossley to make the donation, raised from sales of the first batch of his poetry book ‘Talking Myself Out Of Trouble’.

The book is a compilation of 30 verses covering Jack’s journey through mental health awareness and recovery, and includes illustrations by artist Phil Wagstaff.

Jack said: “Emmaus is a place that I have loved visiting since moving to the area many years ago.

"I always feel welcome and enjoy the creative and ethical side that carries through the premises.

“The drive and passion that exists within Emmaus Mossley and what they do in the community is applaudable.

"It seemed only fitting that such an exceptional local charity should benefit from the work Phil and I have produced and join the journey.

"I am amazed at how well the book has been received.

"Thank you to all who have or will purchase the book.”

Jack turned to writing after suffering a breakdown in 2019 and a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome related to his past service as an Army soldier.

He has since toured venues and festivals across the country, performing his spoken word verse as Leon The Pig Farmer.

From the outset, Jack wanted a portion of the sale price from each book sold to go to Emmaus Mossley, a charity which he has supported for many years.

Emmaus Mossley supports 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a home and work in a community setting.

Alison Hill, Director at Emmaus Mossley, said: “It was great to welcome Jack back to our community and hear about the success of his book and recent spoken word events.

"Everyone at Emmaus Mossley is extremely grateful for Jack’s continued support and this very generous donation from the sales of his first poetry book.”

‘Talking Myself Out Of Trouble’ is available to buy from the Leon The Pig Farmer website and the Emmaus Mossley second-hand superstore. 

For more information about Leon The Pig Farmer, his spoken word poetry, blog and upcoming events, visit: https://thepigfarmer.art/ 

To find out more and support Emmaus Mossley head to: https://emmaus.org.uk/mossley/

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