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About Us
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Celebrating Literary Heritage, Inspiring Creativity
Welcome to the Surrey Poet Laureateship, a beacon of literary excellence nestled in the heart of one of England's most historically rich counties. Our mission? To ignite a vibrant and enthusiastic approach to poetry, making this timeless art form accessible and engaging for everyone across Surrey.
About
Our Vision
In Surrey, a county steeped in literary tradition and natural beauty, we believe poetry is more than words on a page – it's a living, breathing celebration of our heritage and a bold march towards our future. The Surrey Poet Laureateship aims to capture the spirit of our county, from the rolling hills of the North Downs to the bustling streets of Guildford, through the evocative and powerful medium of poetry.
Making Poetry Accessible
We are committed to tearing down the barriers that often keep people from engaging with poetry. Our goal is to ensure that every resident of Surrey, regardless of age, background, or location, has the opportunity to experience the joy and profundity of poetry. Through workshops, readings, and community events, we bring poetry to the people, fostering a county-wide appreciation for this art form.
The Laureate's Role
The Surrey Poet Laureate isn't just a title; it's a journey through the heart and soul of our county. Our laureate serves as a custodian of Surrey's cultural legacy, crafting verses that capture the essence of our landscapes, the spirit of our communities, and the pulse of our times. This role is about preservation through poetry, ensuring that the unique tapestry of Surrey's past and present is woven into the rich fabric of our collective memory.
Join Us
We invite you to be part of this exciting literary journey. Whether you're a budding poet, a lover of the written word, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of Surrey, there's a place for you in our community. Together, let's write the next chapter in Surrey's storied literary history.
Our Story
The Surrey Poet Laureateship was established by Adam Gary, a Surrey-based poet, YouTuber, and the founder of The Poetry Cove. With a deep appreciation for Surrey's landscapes and cultural heritage, Adam recognised the absence of a Poet Laureate to celebrate and nurture the county's literary tradition.
Motivated by the power of poetry to unite and heal, Adam set out to establish the Surrey Poet Laureateship. His ambition was to underscore Surrey's literary significance while making poetry an accessible and vibrant part of the community.
Adam was joined by founding patrons Howard Jameson and Alix Bramwell, both of whom brought their unique perspectives and enthusiasm for mental health and community well-being to the initiative. Together with a team of diverse talents and a shared mission, they've worked to ensure the laureateship's relevance and endurance.
The Surrey Poet Laureateship thus serves as both a celebration of Surrey's poetic heritage and a dynamic force for bringing poetry to a broader audience, enriching the county's cultural landscape. It embodies Adam's vision of a community uplifted by poetry, with the efforts of Adam, Howard, and Alix setting the stage for a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Meet the Team
Behind the Surrey Poet Laureateship is a team of passionate individuals, each bringing their unique talents and dedication to the forefront of this cultural endeavour. Our team comprises a diverse mix of poets, literary enthusiasts, community organisers, and educators, all united by a common love for Surrey and its rich literary heritage. With backgrounds ranging from creative writing to event management, each member contributes to making the laureateship a vibrant, inclusive, and impactful platform. We are proud to have a team that not only champions the beauty of poetry but also works tirelessly to ensure that it reaches every corner of Surrey, inspiring and engaging communities in the shared experience of the written word.
Patrons
Adam Gary
Adam Gary, Surrey's inaugural Poet Laureate, is a luminary in the world of contemporary poetry. Hailing from the heart of Surrey, he is a celebrated poet, an influential YouTuber, and the founder of the thriving poetry platform, The Poetry Cove. Through his poetry magazine, Adam has given over 50 poets internationally their debut poetry publishing, showcasing his dedication to nurturing new talent and expanding the reach of poetic voices. As a leader in the literary community, Adam's vision for the Surrey Poet Laureateship is to foster a vibrant, inclusive space where poetry flourishes and connects people across the county. His commitment to this cause has established him as a pivotal figure in Surrey's cultural scene, inspiring a new generation of poets and poetry lovers.
Alix Bramwell
Alix Bramwell is a seasoned professional in the events industry, whose personal journey through mental health challenges led him to the holistic wellbeing space, inspiring the creation of the Wisdom on Wellness festival and The London Gem and Mineral Show. With over a decade of experience managing large-scale events and a deep commitment to promoting mental, physical, and spiritual health, Alix has found a unique intersection between his professional expertise and his passion for wellbeing. As a new patron of the Surrey Poet Laureateship, his dedication to mental health advocacy and his experience in bringing people together make him an invaluable asset to our mission of using poetry to support vulnerable communities and elevate the presence of poetry across Surrey.
Howard Jameson
Howard is the Founder and Chairman of the internationally acclaimed, award-winning Jermyn Street Theatre, which recently celebrated its 25-year anniversary. The theatre is a true jewel in London’s theatrical scene and is highly respected, winning constant praise and glowing reviews from the industry. Howard brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to both the arts and charitable causes. A co-founder of two successful radio stations, Men's Radio and Women's Radio, Howard has consistently demonstrated his ability to connect and communicate with diverse audiences. His passion for the arts, especially poetry, shines through in his endeavors, enriching the cultural tapestry of the communities he engages with. Beyond his artistic pursuits, Howard is a staunch advocate for mental health. He leverages his platforms and influence to raise awareness and support for mental health initiatives, believing in the power of art and communication to heal and uplift. His dedication to these causes is not just professional; it's a reflection of his core values and commitment to making a positive impact in society. As a trustee of the laureateship, Howard's blend of artistic passion and charitable dedication plays a vital role in shaping the initiative's outreach and impact, making poetry a force for good in the lives of individuals and the wider community.
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