A unique competition for Sussex Poets has been launched this year. The competition is the first open solely to people who have a connection with Sussex. Brighton & Hove Arts Council and Rottingdean Writers’ Group are collaborating to invite established and novice poets to submit their work.

The point behind this is to encourage and give creative people a means of gaining recognition. There are many poets in Sussex; poetry is becoming a popular art medium.

There are three cash prizes: lst £750, the Wellesley Prize for Sussex Poets 2013; 2nd £250, the English Language Centre Prize; 3rd £100, The Chalk Gallery Prize. Other sponsors include Leaders Lettings, DMH Stallard LLP Solicitors and Harrison & Co.

Dr John Mc Cullough, prize-winning poet and teacher of creative writing at Sussex University and the Open University is the judge. Closing date for entries is 31 October 2013, with winners notified in January 2014. For entry forms, rules and regulations of the competition see bh-arts.org.uk or rottingdeanwritersgroup.co.uk