PUPILS across Chester put their poetry reading skills to the test at the University of Chester.
They found themselves in the company of former Cheshire Poet Laureate and winner of last year’s Cheshire Prize for Literature, Andrew Rudd, and the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Chester, Jim and Hilary Latham.
Some 18 pupils from six Chester schools took part in the inaugural Rotary Club of Chester Poetry Reading Competition, held in the University’s Binks Building.
The winner of the competition was Christina Bell from Abbey Gate College. Second place went to Sam Jones, also from Abbey Gate College, while Christleton High School’s Nia Lewis came third. Claire Brewin of Upton High School was highly commended.
Each participant was asked to read out a poem of their own choice and verses written by the newly-appointed Cheshire Poet Laureate, Terry Fox. Those in attendance were treated to poetry readings by Mr Rudd during the evening.
Derek Jackson, President of the Rotary Club of Chester, said: “This was a very successful first year for the competition, and we hope it will become established as part of the Chester Literacy calendar in the coming years.”
