Pinter, Mitchell and Marion Petrucci are among the poets featured in the first issue, out now. The debut issue also feature work from poets, writers and artists from across the world, including leading US poets, Jack Hirschman and the late Allen Cohen.

Each edition has a theme, with the first issue focussing on War and Peace and includes work from Pinter’s controversial collection, "War" and Mitchell’s "The Shadow Knows".

There are also interviews with Mitchell, Jack Hirschman, Mario Petrucci and Todd Swift, as well as features and reviews.

Manchester poet, John Hall, who co-edits the magazine, said: "The idea for the magazine came from a reaction to the lack of arts magazines that address current events. Our aim is to produce a magazine which does not simply present a sloganeering opportunity, but a collection point for quality work infused with passion and thought."

And co-editor, Dave Toomer, added: "There is no shortage of writing talent in the North West and this magazine gives writers and artists the opportunity to showcase that talent alongside some of the best writers in the English language, both in the UK and overseas."

The magazine has attracted interest from Europe as well as from writers in San Francisco and New York.

The next issues will address the themes of homelessness and censorship.

The magazine costs £3.50 and subscription is £7 for three issues. For details of subscriptions visit www.citizen32.co.uk or email  editor@citizen32.co.uk or phone 07976 286096.

The magazine is on sale at the Cornerhouse, Oxford Road, Manchester; the Basement, 24, Lever Street, Manchester and the Urbis, Manchester.

It's hoped it will also be on sale at News From Nowhere in Liverpool, Word Power in Edinburgh and Bookmarks and Housman's in London.