THE search has begun to find the next Staffordshire Poet Laureate.
The post – and that of Young Poet Laureate – will help promote creativity in local communities and raise the profile of prose across the county.
Cllr Hayley Coles, cabinet member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said:
"These two roles are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate creativity and support talented poets across Staffordshire.
"Our libraries remain at the heart of our communities, and through initiatives like this we can inspire people of all ages to explore poetry, express themselves and connect with others.
"I would encourage anyone with a passion for poetry to apply and be part of shaping Staffordshire’s cultural future."
The Staffordshire Poet Laureate is a two-year role that offers an opportunity for an experienced poet to act as an ambassador for the county.
The successful applicant will create new work, perform at events and support local initiatives.
Scarlett Ward, outgoing Staffordshire Poet Laureate, said:
"The moments I have enjoyed most have been working with the young writers in the community and mentoring the Young Poets Laureate."
The role will also see mentoring of the Young Poet Laureate.
Pearl Knight-Dutton, outgoing Staffordshire Young Poet Laureate, said:
"From working with libraries in the area, to reading out poetry at events, collaborating with the community around me has been a real highlight of the role.
"With Scarlett's helpful advice, my poetry has found itself more of a style and has given me the knowledge that I need to keep on improving.
"I've really been able to explore more of Staffordshire's culture through voices of so many different backgrounds, discovering what makes it the unique place that it is."
People can request an application pack for either role by emailing connectedlibraries@staffordshire.gov.uk. The closing date for the Staffordshire Poet Laureate is 7th August, while the deadline to submit an application for the Young Poet Laureate position is 21st August.
