Renowned poet Pam Ayres is set to bring her wit and charm to Wells this October, headlining a special poetry session at the Wells Festival of Literature.

As she prepares to grace the festival with her presence, here are seven things you might not know about this much-loved literary figure.

• Her first job was in the Civil Service

Pam Ayres began her career as a clerk in the Civil Service before joining the Air Force, where she was posted to Singapore. It was there that Ayres first started performing poetry for her mates. When she returned home, she continued her performances in folk clubs and old people's homes.

• Breakthrough on 'Opportunity Knocks'

Despite her dad saying she had a 'snowball's chance in hell' of winning, Pam auditioned for the ITV talent show Opportunity Knocks and won. This victory led to a 13-week series in 1975, which propelled her to national fame.

• A darkly humorous side

Although Pam Ayres is known for her quaint and mild comedy verse, she once wrote a poem titled 'Please will you take your children home before I do them in'. This shows a darker, yet humorous, side to her poetic repertoire.

• Financial struggles in the 1990s

During the 1990s, a barn conversion project nearly bankrupted her. With interest rates soaring, Ayres had to undertake a grueling 90-date tour to keep her family afloat, often performing with migraines from the stress.

• Mistaken identity

Pam Ayres is often mistaken for the late comedian Victoria Wood in public, Despite their distinct styles, the resemblance has led to amusing mix-ups over the years.

• A versatile career

Ayres has published six books of poems, including The Works, With These Hands, and Up In The Attic. Her autobiography, The Necessary Aptitude: A Memoir, details her journey from a council house upbringing to success in entertainment. She is a frequent guest on BBC Radio and has appeared on TV shows like QI and Countdown.

• Recent projects and accolades

Pam's recent works include Pam Ayres on Animals and Who Are You Calling Vermin? She has also been recognised as the best-selling poet in Britain since records began, surpassing even Ted Hughes. In 2020, she performed on Cunard's Queen Mary 2 during its world voyage and interviewed HRH The Prince of Wales for her Channel 5 series, The Cotswolds & Beyond.

Pam Ayres will be sharing her illustrious career, humorous verses, and new works at the Wells Festival of Literature on 19 October. The festival, running from 18-26 October, supports educational initiatives in local schools and offers a platform for literary celebration.

For more information on how to become involved with the festival or to book tickets, please visit Wells Festival of Literature.