‘Goole 26’ poetry competition launched

A poetry competition to celebrate the Goole bicentenary, often referred to as Goole 200, has been launched by East Riding Libraries.

The ‘Goole 26’ competition is now open for entries and focusses on the theme of Goole.

Entrants can write poems around their experience of living in Goole, whether they are a past or current resident.

There are three categories in the competition, primary school, secondary school and adult (age 16+).

Each category will have a winner and a runner-up, with winners receiving a cash prize.

Runners-up in all categories will receive a Goole ‘26 commemorative salt and pepper pot cruet set.

Certificates will also be provided, with all prizes funded by the Goole Civic Society.

This poetry competition has been introduced due to the success of the East Riding Festival of Words Poetry Competition that runs annually and welcomes entrants from around the world.

Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure, and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “The launch of this poetry competition is a fantastic opportunity for the people of Goole to get involved with the Goole 200 celebrations, express their creativity and contribute their thoughts and feelings on their experience as a Goole resident.

‘’We look forward to seeing the entries, hearing what people have to say and choosing a worthy winner!’’

East Riding Libraries Librarian, Hayley Nicholson, creator of the ‘Goole 26’ poetry competition, added: “Poetry is one of the easiest forms of art and this competition is all about celebrating Goole.

‘’Put pen to paper and share your town pride!”

To enter the competition, poems need to be submitted to Goole library, either via email: goole.library@eastriding.gov.uk or via a hard copy handed in to library staff. All poems will be anonymised before judging.

The competition is open until 11:59pm on Sunday, 21 June 2026.

For more information, including terms and conditions, please visit: www.eryc.link/Goolepoetry