Nico is youngest winner

NICO Russell has become the youngest ever winner of the National Poetry Anthology at the age of 30. Nico, from the Wirral, was truly shocked to discover that he had won this; the biggest free-to-enter annual poetry competition in the UK.

"It was a real shock when I was told I'd won.  I never imagined it and this success is almost like a life-changing experience." said Nico.

Nico, who works in creative media, submitted his poem 'A British Heart' for the National Poetry Anthology competition, which is open to all UK residents and attracts tens of thousands of entries.  He was first selected as a regional winner and had his poem published in the book along with 250 other regional winners.  "All the winners get a free copy of this annual book and get to vote for what they think is the best poem in it. The winner of the vote receives the first prize of £1000 plus a magnificent trophy to keep for life." Nico received his trophy and cheque in a presentation at his local library in Bebington."  said Joanna Cummings of United Press.

Nico added:- "It's an amazing competition and I would recommend anyone to enter it.  I've written poetry for many years but never entered a competition before, and only entered the National Poetry Anthology at the suggestion of a friend of my mum."

"Anyone can enter the competition, and entry forms are available from most libraries, or people can enter via our website, or by post to: NPA, United Press, Admail 3735, London EC1B 1JB/ "The aim of the National Poetry Anthology is to encourage more people to get involved in writing poetry and Nico is a perfect example. He is completely new to entering poetry competitions and has won at his first attempt. We hope he goes on to become even better known as a poet." said Peter Quinn, Managing Director of United Press.

Nico's ambition is to publish a book of his own work. As well as writing poetry, he enjoys writing comedy prose and is working on a sitcom.  "I've written poetry since I was a schoolboy, and most of my work is very emotional. In poetry you can express feelings in a far more intimate and creative way," he explained.

If you want to enter the National Poetry Anthology, submit up to 3 poems (on any subject) before the annual closing date of June 30. There is no age limit to the competition, and the only condition is that you have to be a UK resident.

NPA 2012 Competition winner...
A British Heart
© Nico Russell, Spital, Merseyside

Down beats the drummer's hand to lead them on their way.

Faultlessly, they march in line, no single stride astray.

Immaculate from head to toe, this military perfection;

These highly polished men, today in personal reflection.

With heads held high and shoulders back, they carry him with pride;

Their ally and their friend, who on the battlefield had died.

The English breeze caressed the air and dried the springtime dew;

As children watched in wonder at the draped red, white and blue.

He was just a boy himself, yet the job had made him older.

To most he was a fearsome sight, an armed and dangerous soldier.

But to his doting mother, who now numb forever more,

He'd always be her tender son, snatched from her by war.

The streets were lined with mourners, those he knew and had not met;

There to do their duty and whisper, We shall not forget.

He spent his life in service, to his country, to his Queen,

He gave his life for freedom, a better future, now unseen.

The essence of a British heart: proud and brave and loyal;

Returning home to peaceful rest, within the British soil.