Therapist crowned as market town's poet laureate

Ross Ayres said he was "over the moon" to win the title

A therapist and counsellor has been named as the new poet laureate for a market town.

Ross Ayres won open auditions and beat 10 other contenders for the title in Stamford, Lincolnshire.

Stamford is known for its poetry scene and is also home to the famous Poetry Stone at St Michael's churchyard, where the public can step up to recite a verse.

Mr Ayres, who will hold the honorary post for a year and perform at civic events, said he was "over the moon".

South Kesteven District Council said his work was "rooted in psychology and delivered with a unique, gritty style, exploring the raw edges of human suffering, resilience, and triumph".

Mr Ayres, who lives in Paston, near Peterborough, said: "I hope I can serve the local poetry scene with authenticity and help grow the already thriving community.

"I want to showcase the connective power of poetry and help bring the poet out in those that are hesitant or emerging."

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