AWARD NEWS

Birmingham's new Young Poet Laureate

16-year-old Jordan Westcarr was appointed by Birmingham Libraries as the city's new Young Poet Laureate, at Birmingham Central Library on 21st October. As sponsors of the role, Peters awarded Jordan with a book token worth £100 to spend in the showroom. The award and voucher were presented to Jordan by Peters Managing Director, Carl McInerney.

Around 90 young people had applied for the position, each submitting four poems, including one on the theme of 'Home', and a personal statement outlining why they should be considered for the role.

A panel of judges narrowed the applicants down to a shortlist of 11, who were then asked to perform two of their poems at a live event in Birmingham's Library Theatre. Jordan scored the highest marks for his personal statement, poems and performance, so the judges reached a unanimous decision!

Jordan said: "My uncle gave me a letter about the competition and told me I should enter... I didn't really know if I could write poetry, but I love English and want to be a writer when I'm older so I thought I would give it a try."

On 26th October, Jordan visited Peters to redeem his voucher for £100 worth of books. Whilst here, he met with Benjamin Zephaniah, who champions the award. Benjamin chatted with Jordan and congratulated him on his achievement.

Follow Jordan's progress throughout his year as Birmingham's Young Poet Laureate at www.birmingham.gov.uk/younglaureate.