Ross Ayres, a therapist and spoken word artist based near Peterborough, has been named Poet Laureate for Stamford following a competitive selection process. South Kesteven District Council awards the honorary title annually as part of its efforts to engage the local creative sector.
Ayres has consistently contributed to the council’s Pint of Poetry events at Stamford Arts Centre. His new role will see him commissioned to write and perform poetry at civic events and other cultural programming across the town for the next year.
The appointment reflects a broader trend of integrating the arts into community engagement and public programming, providing opportunities for creative practitioners to partner with councils and local businesses.
Stamford’s next public poetry event is scheduled for 28 May at the Arts Centre, featuring a guest performance by playwright and lecturer James McDermott.
Image credit: South Kesteven District Council
