Poetry awards in memory of Luton journalist celebrate talent for second year
A poetry competition held in memory of a Luton reporter and poet has shone a light on talented writers from across the country during a special awards ceremony.
The Perpendicular Poetry Prize was started in 2025 after the death of former Luton Herald and Post deputy editor, Clive Cresswell, who died at the age of 66 in 2024.
His family wanted his memory to live on through this competition and this year held a larger event, with support from Luton Create Fund.
The awards, which included an adult prize and two for younger poets, partnered with Lugus Ceramics and Clod Magazine to create trophies and booklets for the event.
Writing workshops were held at schools in the town and an independent bookstore, Brown Books, which also hosted the junior ceremony on June 6.
Amber Leahy and Dennis Bardho were named as the under-18 prize winners.
The Bricklayers Arms pub hosted the adult ceremony on June 7, where poets performed.
Frances Presley, 73, an experimental poet, was named as the winner of the Perpendicular Poetry Prize 2026.
Clive’s widow, June Essex, and children Sophie and Elliott, were there to celebrate the creativity of the submissions.
Elliott said: "This competition started as a way to keep Clive alive. And it's still that! But it's also a way to build the community he was part of, to encourage new writers, young and old.
“Clive faced hardships, including struggles with mental health. Writing helped him find himself, and put the world to rights. Our hope is this competition can help others too.
“Grief can be a dark place, but seeing so many come together in his memory, to celebrate the written word – there couldn't be a better tribute."