Poetic praise for Armed Forces

Young writers could be in with a chance to see their poem published in a souvenir programme to commemorate Nottinghamshire Armed Forces Day.

On Saturday 29th June 2013 Nottingham will play host to the fifth Armed Forces Day National Event - a day to celebrate the outstanding work undertaken by the Servicemen and women who make up our Armed Forces, past and present. Planning is already underway to create a spectacular event at

Victoria Embankment which will showcase the work of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force.

As part of the celebrations, organisers are inviting primary and secondary school children aged 7 – 18 years from throughout Nottinghamshire to take part in a poetry competition on the theme of ‘Hats off to our Heroes’.

It’s a chance for budding young writers to celebrate our heroes and write about what the Armed Forces mean to them. They may even draw on their own personal experiences of a parent, family member or friend who is currently serving or has served in the Armed Forces.

The winning entry from each group (primary & secondary) will receive a £50 voucher and will have their poem published in the official Armed Forces Day souvenir programme which will be sold in advance and on the day itself. The winner could also have their poem shown on the big screen at the Victoria Embankment on the day.

Entries will be judged by a panel who will be looking for poems which are heart-warming and inspirational and either highlight the strength of support towards our local troops and/or celebrate the contribution made by our Forces heroes.

Entries should be sent via e-mail to: [email protected] or posted to: Learning, Engagement & Collections Team at Nottingham City Museums & Galleries, c/o Communities Courtyard, Wollaton Road, Nottingham, NG8 2AD by Thursday 28th March 2013. Please include your name, home address, age, school year, phone number and school/college details.

Coun Kay Cutts, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, added: “Nottinghamshire is proud of its close links with our Armed Forces and we are thrilled to be the national focus for this year’s Armed Forces Day.

“Our Armed Forces are on the frontline every day, protecting us and allowing us to have the freedom we enjoy. It’s fantastic that young people in our schools are to be given the opportunity to express how they feel about the contribution made by Services personnel.”

Coun Dave Trimble, Portfolio Holder for Leisure Culture and Tourism, said: “Nottingham has a proud military heritage and is honoured to host this national event. We want to say thank you for the huge contribution and sacrifices made by our Service personnel past and present.

“There are over 2,000 Service personnel and their families in Nottinghamshire and this competition gives a chance for all our children and young people to get involved in the celebrations.”