BUDDING bards are being encouraged to pen a poignant poem to commemorate the centenary of the First World War.

Hampshire Cultural Trust (HCT) is looking for poets of all ages to enter its new competition to compose a poem about the war, or its wider themes of reflection and remembrance.

Over the last 12 months, arts and heritage venues across Hampshire have been commemorating the 100th anniversary of the start of the war with exhibitions, competitions and events.

As the centenary commemorations continue, HCT, which was set up at the end of last year to champion world-class culture, has launched the competition.

Entrants can set their work in the past or present, titled 1915 or 2015, using a maximum of 40 lines.

The deadline for entries is February 27 and the competition will be split into two categories – under 16 and over 16.

Winners of each category will be awarded a £50 national book token and runners-up will also each receive a prize.

Judges will include Joan McGavin, last year’s Hampshire Poet, and poet Aoife Mannix.

Janet Owen, chief executive officer of HCT, said: “It is great to invite budding Hampshire poets to showcase their work to mark the end of the county’s 1914 theme.

“We are excited to see the writing talent Hampshire has to offer, and are thrilled to have such highly-acclaimed judges to make the decision.”

For more information and to apply, visit hampshireculturaltrust.org.uk.