A new poet laureate has been crowned.
Jay Rose Ana was named Worcestershire’s 16th Poet Laureate during the launch of the Worcestershire Literary Festival on June 7.
The event took place at the Huntingdon Hall Foyer Bar and marked the start of a week-long celebration of the written and spoken word.
Speaking after her win, Ms Ana said: “I am over the moon to be elected Worcestershire Poet Laureate for 2026-2027.
“For me, poetry has been transformative in my life, it has introduced me to wonderful people over the years, and together with my work with Samaritans has taught me the value of listening to one another’s stories.
“I am looking forward to connecting with communities across our county, celebrating the voices that make Worcestershire such a special place, and sharing poetry that helps us feel seen, heard, and a little less alone.”
This year’s festival featured 10 events over seven days, including three double event days, and attracted more than 330 attendees—surpassing last year’s numbers.
Ms Ana won the title following a live poetry competition judged by former Poet Laureate Paul Robert, literary festival director Nina Lewis, and award-winning short story writer Brian Comber.
She competed alongside finalists Rebecca King and Lucia Sellars, with each poet performing two pieces—one on the theme of “Wonder” and one of their own choosing—as well as sharing their vision for the laureateship.
A LitFest spokesperson said: “The finalists were all excellent and so supportive of each other.”
Other highlights included the finals of the Young Writers and Flash Fiction competitions, with trophies, certificates, and book tokens presented by the Mayor of Worcester, Tor Pingree.
In the junior category (Years 3–6), Linus Oxtoby claimed first place, followed by Asa Landau in second.
The intermediate category (Years 7–9) was won by Dorian Oxtoby.
In the senior category (Years 10–12), Iona Campbell took first, Harry Edwards was second, Jamie Phillips placed third, and Myla Jones was highly commended.
The Flash Fiction competition, judged anonymously by Rod Griffiths and last year’s winner Cheryl Powell, named Ruthie Walker as the winner, with DK in second and Jamie D Stacey in third.
Festival-related exhibitions are currently open to the public, including the Wonder Exhibition in the Dean’s Chapel at Worcester Cathedral until Friday, June 19.
The Hive is also hosting the touring exhibition Our Future is Ancestral: Praying with Our Feet until Tuesday, June 23.
