A POPULAR Whitchurch bar has hosted a poetry competition, which organisers hope to be the first of many.

The inaugural Poetry Whitchurch slam took place at Percy's Live Music Bar, in the Bullring, on Monday, August 21 with poets and spoken word artists from across the Midlands and North West taking part.

The first Poetry Slam was won by Wolverhampton poet John Woodall but the standard of performers included Merseyside-based pair Stephen Porter, known as Saint Vespaluus and Sally Porter, among others.

Helen Kay, creative director, said she was delighted to see so many people from around the town supporting their friends and the event.

She said: “Playing to a packed crowd John beat 14 other poets in a high-energy night to take home the prize.

“John particularly wowed the audience and judges with his astonishing poem about losing keys. 

“Contestants came from far and wide – from all over neighbouring counties and also from Lancashire, Yorkshire and Merseyside.

OTHER NEWS:

“But there was also great local presence. 

"The quality of the contestants' poetry was absolutely fantastic.

“We were really delighted to see so many local poets taking part and so many people out supporting their friends.”

Poetry Whitchurch, a registered charity, aims to make the slam an annual event as part of its burgeoning roster of activities. 

Chairman Harvey Vasey added: "Everyone has poetry in them.

Whitchurch Herald:

“There is always a very warm welcome to everyone whether they are new to poetry or more experienced. We encourage people to have a go and see what happens.”

John Woodall will be the guest poet at the next open mic at the Civic Centre, Whitchurch on Monday, October 16.

Harvey added: “Poetry Whitchurch hold open mics on the third Monday of each month alternating between the Civic Centre or online.

“There are also friendly discussion groups looking at the work of particular published poets, held at the barn at Sainsburys, as well as poetry development workshops and mentoring groups.

“The charity is working with Sir John Talbot’s School and are partnering with a range of national arts organisations to bring new opportunities for all to the area.

“More information can be found on their website at www.poetrywhitchurch.com

“Poetry Whitchurch would like to thank Whitchurch Town Council for their recent small grant award.”