The Stamford Poet Laureate and the Youth Poet Laureates for 2023 have been announced.

Poet Laureate is an honorary position held by individuals in many towns across the country. The UK also has an official Poet Laureate. The current Poet Laureate for the UK is Simon Armitage, who took over from Carol Ann Duffy in 2019, upon the completion of her 10 year stint.

In Stamford, the Youth Laureate post for 2023 has been awarded to two young poets, Abbie Blair-Hope and Aiden Surridge. Taking on the role of Stamford Poet Laureate 2023 is Emily Dickens.

Scott Coe, Stamford's Poet Laureate, Tweeted:

"A big congratulations to our new laureates. Youth Laureate 2023 is jointly awarded to Abbie Blair-Hope and Aiden Surridge. Stamford Poet Laureate 2023 is awarded to Emily Dickens."

A big congratulations to our new laureates.Youth Laureate 2023 is jointly awarded to Abbie Blair-Hope and Aiden Surridge.Stamford Poet Laureate 2023 is awarded to Emily Dickens.#Stamford #poetry #StamfordPoetLaureate @stamfordarts @StamfordTC @RutStamSound @southkesteven pic.twitter.com/oRITaGxmQ5

— Scott Coe 🇺🇦 Stamford Poet Laureate (@ScottACoe) April 26, 2023

Congratulations to Scott Coe and Daniel Paice, the Youth Poet Laureate who is being superseded by Abbie and Aiden.

Good luck to Abbie, Aiden and Emily as they step into their new roles.