Wycliffe head of art nominated for writing award (From Stroud News and Journal)

Wycliffe head of art nominated for writing award

5:30pm Thursday 6th October 2011 in News

ART teacher Mark Stopforth has been shortlisted for a writer’s award - out of thousands who submitted their work.

The prestigious Brit Writers’ Awards Unpublished nominations showcase the very best that the UK creative writing scene has to offer and Mark has made it into the top four in the poetry category.

Although Brit Writers was only established in 2009, it has quickly grown to become the fastest growing network of writers of all ages and backgrounds.

Last year, more than 21,000 Brits from around the world entered the awards and this year the number has grown to even greater heights.

In the adult section the finalists were chosen in the groups of novels, short stories, stage and screenplays, non-fiction, song writing, children’s stories and poetry.

Poet Mark submitted five of his poems – Orrery, The bucket, Pipistrelle, Winter Roost and Greyhound – and said he is delighted that his work has been recognised.

"I cannot believe that they have been like so much," the head of art at Wycliffe Preparatory School said.

Mark and his fellow finalists will attend a glittering ceremony at Madame Tussauds in London on Friday, October seven.

Famous faces from the literary world, along with and sponsors will gather and celebrate the achievements of the UK literary world.

Chief executive of Brit Writers, Imran Akram, said: "The standard of this year’s entries has exceeded all expectations.

"Some of the writing has blown us away.

"There’s a wealth of talent out there and we are so proud to be able to showcase it in this way.

"The Awards evening is a fantastic way to reward those who show real promise in the industry and give them a chance to be showcased to important figures from the literary and media world."

Last year’s winner of the prestigious Unpublished Writer of the Year Award went to former teacher Catherine Cooper.

She lives in Shropshire and won £10,000 and a publishing deal for her children’s novel, The Golden Acorn.