Main heading

Background to the scheme

The Cheshire Poet Laureate scheme was launched on National Poetry Day 2002 with the following aims:

1. to provide an opportunity for local poets to have their individual profiles raised
2. to use the appointed poet to assist in raising the profile of poetry across the county of Cheshire

It is intended that these aims be achieved by:

1. appointing a different poet on an annual basis
2. creating a core set of commissions each year relating to key events in the Cheshire calendar
3. generating further commissions, workshops and appearances on behalf of the poet as and when suitable opportunities arise
4. providing an annual showcase event
5. publishing work written by the poet during the laureateship