Poets invited to showcase work on Metro

A North East transport operator is inviting local poets to share their work and see it displayed publicly.

Nexus, the operator of the Tyne and Wear Metro, has opened its fifth annual poetry competition, in partnership with the Poetry Book Society. 

The contest runs from National Poetry Day on October 3 until October 17, welcoming submissions from both budding and experienced writers of all ages and abilities.

This year’s competition theme is ‘Tyne and Wear,’ with winners seeing their work featured on large posters at Longbenton Metro station, the Metro’s unofficial “poetry station” that is used by over one million passengers annually. 

The winning poet will receive £100 in Waterstones vouchers and a free Poetry Book Society membership, while the three runners up will each receive £50 vouchers.

All entries will be judged by Nexus representatives and published poet Rowan McCabe. 

Alice Mullen, manager of the Poetry Book Society, said: “The Poetry Book Society is delighted to again partner with Nexus on the annual Metro Poetry Prize. 

“The standard of the poems is always exceptional, and although we’re a national organisation, we’re based in Newcastle, so we’re very excited to read this year’s entries on the theme of ‘Tyne and Wear’.

“Poetry can offer comfort and hope, as well as sparking curiosity and creativity in both the writers and the readers – so we’d strongly encourage everyone who cares about words, and this wonderful region, to get involved.”

David Turton, marketing services manager at Nexus, added: “We’re delighted to use Longbenton Metro station once more to display poetry. 

“Last year we received over 300 entries, which is a fantastic response and it’s a real celebration of Metro’s long association with the arts.

“Metro serves people across Tyne and Wear, home to towns and cities, coastlines and rivers, a rich history, cultural centres, sporting venues and over one million people. 

“We can’t wait to read these poems on our region.”

Longbenton has become a notable local venue for poetry and art, hosting works from previous competitions and professional poets on themes including Winter, Home, Journeys and Care. 

Current displays celebrate the region and the Metro itself, supported by the Royal Literary Fund.

The competition is open to all ages and all abilities, with no previous poetry writing or publishing required.

Poets can submit their entries via the Nexus website, here.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →