Open Mic Poetry at the Old Courts

 Hello!

 I was very happy to read some of my poems at Open Mic Poetry, at the Old Courts in Wigan. This was my first visit to this monthly event, which is hosted by poet Louise Fazackerley, and I was made to feel very welcome. 

 The line-up was diverse - some writing was comedic, some emotional, and I appreciated the chance to hear it all. I met new people, and the atmosphere was friendly and relaxed. I was also thrilled to discover I had won the poetry competition, which had the theme of "Growth".

 It was a lovely evening and I hope to return in the future.

 Liz x

The Poetry Business New Poets Prize

 Hello!

 It is lovely and very encouraging to learn that I was shortlisted for The Poetry Business's 2017/18 New Poets Prize. I look forward to entering more competitions in the future.

 Congratulations to the winners!

 Liz x

Global Health Poetry Competition

 Hello!

The Top Three: Me, Toreh O'Garro and Anna Nelson

 I took part in this year's Global Health Poetry Competition, run by Manchester Global Health Society.

 I was delighted to be told that I was in the Top Ten, and invited to read my poem "Perpignan sestina" - inspired by my time living in France - at the awards ceremony at Chapter One Books in the Northern Quarter.

 I was then even more delighted to be told I had won Second Prize. I am so happy that the judges - Dr Sarah Collins, Enam Haque and Joy France - enjoyed my poem, and the ceremony was lovely. I heard some amazing poetry.

 The winning poems will be released in an e-book soon, so watch this space! Overall, this was a really nice and fun thing to happen in the middle of all of my university work and deadlines. I'm very glad I entered the competition.

 Liz x

Northern Writers' Awards 2017

 Hello!

 I am extremely happy to have been announced as a winner in the New North Poets section of the Northern Writers' Awards. The ceremony, on Thursday night at Northumbria University, was a really lovely evening of food, writing and celebration.

 Receiving such a prestigious award is amazing. I'm greatly looking forward to my prize, which is a year of mentoring with The Poetry School and Clare Pollard. I'm also excited to get to know the four other poets chosen. The next year looks to be a great one for me creatively.

 Many thanks to everyone who has read and enjoyed my writing over the years, and congratulations to all of the award-winners.

 Liz x