CREATIVE County youngster Iona Campbell beat off competition from a record number of budding writers to be crowned Worcestershire’s young poet laureate.
In total, 12 were selected evenly from three age groups to perform in the final at The Hive.
Bethany Lunney was also crowned champion in the Year 9, 10, and 11 age group, while Olivia Harvey reigned supreme in the Year 12 and 13 category.
The annual competition aims to encourage young people to express themselves through poetry.
As Young Poet Laureate, Iona will take part in various projects throughout the year, have her work published, and perform at events and festivals.
Elaine Knight, Arts Director, Severn Arts said: “Well done to all our finalists and congratulations to our fantastic winners.
“This year we had our highest number of competition entries so just getting to the final was a huge achievement.
“The standard of entries was very high, and we would like to thank everyone for taking part this year.
“The competition provides a wonderful opportunity for young poets to creatively express their thoughts and views.
“We’re looking forward to working with our new Young Poet Laureate over the coming year.
“The 2024 Anthology will be out soon which will showcase a selection of poems from both our finalists and other entries.”
