The Crysse Morrison Prize for Poetry returns for its fourth year, with submissions now open ahead of a prizegiving ceremony on Tuesday 7th July.
Celebrating the life and legacy of writer and poetry champion Crysse Morrison, the annual competition continues to inspire poets of all ages and experience levels from across the UK. A passionate supporter of Frome Festival, Crysse was renowned for her writing and her dedication to encouraging poetry within the local community.
Poets are invited to submit their work via the Frome Festival website, with cash prizes awarded to the top three entries, as well as a separate prize for the best local poem. The overall winner will also receive a unique handmade silver lapel pin in the shape of a writing quill, specially created and gifted by local jeweller Christina Oswin.
The deadline for entries is Sunday 14th June and full competition details can be found on the Frome Festival website.
Organisers are especially encouraging first-time writers to take part. Last year’s winner, Tracey Rupp Rawlins, had written just one poem before entering the competition and her debut entry won first prize.
The winning poems will be announced during the Words at Frome Festival Poetry Night at the Archangel at 7.30pm. Tickets are available through the festival website and in person at the Cheese and Grain box office.
Guests can look forward to an inspiring evening of poetry, including readings of the winning entries presented by this year’s judge, Kate Fox. A celebrated stand-up poet, spoken word performer and broadcaster, Kate will also perform some of her own work during the evening. Audience members are invited to bring along their own poems for a relaxed open mic session.
For more information: https://fromefestival.co.uk/cryssepoetry/
Pictured above: Crysse Morrison. Left: Poetry Prize organiser Rosie Eliot, with 2025 winner Tracey Rupp Rawlins, and Frome Festival Founder and President, Martin Bax MBE (credit Tori Allison)
