A SALISBURY sixth former has won a national writing competition linked to the poetry world’s prestigious TS Eliot Prize.
Iona Singleton, a pupil at South Wilts Grammar School, went to the Eliot Prize ceremony in London where she was introduced to the winner, Philip Gross.
Her own prizes included signed copies of all 10 of the shortlisted poetry collections, and membership of the Poetry Book Society. They were presented by the minister for culture and tourism, Margaret Hodge.
The 18-year-old, who is taking A-levels in English, history and psychology, and hopes to study English at university, also received tickets to the prize readings of the shortlisted poems the day before.
The TS Eliot Prize Shadowing Scheme encourages students to get involved with the award’s judging process.
They are asked to debate and take part in a poll on which poet should win, and a competition in which they write 500 words to justify their choice.
Iona’s essay in favour of Philip Gross’s collection The Water Table will be published in emagazine, in the culture section of Guardian Online, and at www.poetrybooksshoponline.com.
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