WITH today being National Poetry Day, Malvern Hills District Council has launched a writing competition giving the area’s budding bards and super scribes the chance to show off their creative talents.
The theme for the contest is The Year 2020 and pieces can be on anything that has happened this year, how 2020 made people feel, what has been important to them and what people have done.
There are three age categories – under 11s, 12s to 17s and 18s and over – and the deadline is October 31.
A panel of judges will choose the winners and a prize – a voucher for Malvern Book Co-Operative- will be up for grabs for the winner in each category.
The Malvern Hills District is known for its literary connections and has provided inspiration for such greats as CS Lewis, JRR Tolkien, as well as medieval English poet William Langland who wrote ‘The Visions of Piers Ploughman’ which is set on The Malverns.
There is a variety of book shops to choose from, including Malvern Book Co-Operative, The Malvern Bookshop, Books for Amnesty and more.
Coun Sarah Rouse, Malvern Hills District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Tourism and Economic Development, said: “We are asking residents and those who work or go to school in the district to follow in the footsteps of Malvern’s literary greats and to get creative.
“It’s no doubt that this year has been very unusual, so The Year 2020 is the perfect topic for a poetry competition.
“We are looking forward to reading some wonderful creations from all ages and showcasing some local talent.”
Tom Padfield, who works at Malvern Book Co-Operative, said: “We are passionate about supporting local businesses and keeping the High Street alive and vibrant.”
Entrants should email [email protected] with their poem, name, age, postcode and contact number.
Alternatively, post entries to Communications, The Council House, Avenue Rd, Malvern, WR14 3AF
Visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/poetry-competition to read the Terms and Conditions of the competition.
