A LOCAL military history research project is planning to exhibit the work of Keighley's very own First World War poets.

The Men of Worth project intends to showcase the writings of Clara Jane Terry, who was born locally and was head dressmaker at Keighley Co-operative Society. Her poems were published under the pen name of Jean Clare.

A copy of her book, called Verses by Jean Clare – Songs of Peace and War, is kept in Keighley Library.

Men of Worth spokesman, Andy Wade, said: "She wrote this book of poems which was published in 1915 and we're planning to exhibit her work in Keighley Library this year, alongside the poetry of another Keighley wartime writer – Clement Bartrim.

"These are the two definite Keighley war poets from the First World War. Clement Bartrim served in the army and Clara Terry experienced life in Keighley during the war period."

He added he hoped the poems could go on display during a Heritage Open Day on September 12, the weekend after this year's Keighley Show.

Clara's contribution to First World War literature was featured in a Keighley News article in 1916, entitled A Keighley Lady's War Poems.

The reporter wrote: "The pen-name of Jean Clare hides the identity of a Keighley lady who has a genuine love of local sights and scenes. If, as a writer of verse, she never rises quite to the highest heights of lyrical fervour and poetic passion, she, nevertheless has a very happy talent for poetic expression, and a sympathy and sentiment which give something of force, and depth to much of her work, especially that which has been suggested by the war and the heroisms and cruelties sufferings, and sorrows associated with it.

"The local pieces are all charming little exercises in verse. It is her war poems, however, that show 'Jean Clare' at her best."

Clara's First World War-inspired works included a poem about refugees from Belgium, a tribute to British troops killed in action called Our Fallen Heroes and a poem praising the actions of nurse Edith Cavell.

Cavell was shot by a German firing squad after she was caught helping British and French soldiers evade enemy captivity.

Mr Wade said: "As one of Clara Terry's poems is about Edith Cavell we might look into staging a display on her as well.

"Edith Cavell had no direct connection with the town, but her 1915 execution by the Germans had a grave impact on this country at the time. It's highly likely that this will be remembered nationally later this year, as the centenary of her death is October 12 2015."