Anthology of poems by Wirral’s best young writer published in memory of Greasby teenager Chris Salmon

Aug 3 2011 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

AN ANTHOLOGY of work by Wirral’s best young poets has been published in memory of a teenager.

The collection of poetry is a compilation of the winning entries in the first Chris Salmon Poetry Extravaganza, which took place in March.

More than 600 teenagers entered the contest to find Wirral’s new Young Poet Laureate, which was won by 17-year-old Kim Morgan from Heswall.

It was organised by Wirral Libraries and the Chris Salmon Foundation in memory of Chris, from Greasby, a student at Calday Grange Grammar School.

The 15-year-old gifted writer died in February 2009 – just days after complaining of a headache.

His parents said they wanted to thank everyone who helped make their dream of running a poetry competition in their son’s name a reality.

Mum Julie told the News: “The trustees of the charity would like to thank all who took part.

“The event was a great success and it is hoped that there will be even more entries when the 2012 competition is launched in October.”

The Chris Salmon Foundation aims to raise funds for research into the streptococcal virus which caused the teenager’s death.

To date the charity has raised £15,000 from events.

Proceeds from sales of the anthology will be used for next year’s competition.

In 2012 winners will be awarded cash prizes as well as being invited to a poetry workshop with Liverpool poet Levi Tafari.

l The anthology is £6 and can be bought from Oxton Village Books or online at www.chrissalmon.org.uk