Young poets across the borough were treated to an inspirational visit from Michael Rosen at the Stockport Children's Poetry Festival this week. 

The renowned poet and author provided advice and encouragement for young writers at the festival, and helped to judge a poetry competition. 

As part of that competition, primary school children across the borough had submitted poems. Eight schools took part, sending 300 poems in total. 

67 of these were sent to Michael, who narrowed the field by picking the best for a further shortlist.  

The poems were themed around the environment, and had been inspired by written prompts, exploration, and reading. 

Michael is an author, poet, academic, and columnist. Perhaps his most well-known children's works are 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt', and 'Chocolate Cake' (Image - Wikimedia Commons)

The festival took place on Wednesday 20 March. The shortlisted poems were read by the talented young authors themselves, up on stage. 

Councillor Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, said: "Listening to the poems which were shortlisted, it is clear that we have an extremely talented group of young creative writers in Stockport. 

"Thanks so much to Mr Rosen for coming to Stockport and helping to inspire the next generation of poets."

Councillor Frankie Singleton, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture & Sport at Stockport Council, said: "It is fantastic to welcome such a fantastic and well-loved poet and author like Michael Rosen to Stockport. 

"His works have given so much joy to children in the borough and around the world. It was an inspiring event for the budding young poets of Stockport and really encouraged them to keep going with their creative writing."

(Michael Rosen in Waterstones image by 'Peter', licensed under CC  Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic)

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