Young poets sought to represent county

Getty Images The exterior of The Hive in Worcester, a distinctive gold building with a honeycomb-type pattern on the walls. A sign outside reads "The Hive". People are walking along the pedestrianised area outside.Getty Images
The final of the competition will be held at The Hive in April

Young poets are being invited to enter a competition to represent their county.

Applications are open to find Worcestershire's next Young Poet Laureate, with those aged 10-18 invited to submit poems on the theme of "courage".

The winner will be announced in April.

The latest holder of the title, Iona, encouraged aspiring young poets to take part, describing the competition as "an amazing journey".

Poems will be judged across three age groups, from Year Six to Year 13.

Finalists from each group will be invited to perform live at The Hive in Worcester, where a winner will be selected from each group, one of whom will be given the title of Worcestershire's Young Poet Laureate 2025.

"The competition is an amazing journey. The themes spark originality and being part of it connects you to a wider community of poets. It feels incredible to take part," Iona added, after her win last year.

Jen Loffman, from Severn Arts, which is running the competition in conjunction with the county council, said: "This competition is not just about poetry, it's an opportunity for young people to speak about their thoughts and experiences."

Councillor Karen May described it as "a wonderful opportunity for young people to showcase their talent and creativity".

More information and an application form can be found on the Severn Arts website.

The deadline for applications is 17:00 GMT on 28 March with the final at The Hive on 27 April.

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