Cherry Doyle and Lola Taylor have been appointed to the two roles, which are managed by Staffordshire County Council's Libraries and Communities Service. The announcements coincide with National Poetry Day on 1 October.
Cherry Doyle - Staffordshire Poet Laureate
Cherry, who has lived in Staffordshire for 12 years, draws much of her inspiration from the county's landscapes. She has published two collections, including The Taste of Rain: A Year on Cannock Chase (2023). Over the next two years she will champion poetry across the county, support Lola in her role, and celebrate Staffordshire's people and places through the written and spoken word.
Cherry said: "I'm excited to further develop the profile of poetry in our wonderful county and look forward to meeting poets and poetry fans across Staffordshire."
You can follow Cherry at cherrydoyle.com or on Instagram at @cherrydoylepoet.
Lola Taylor - Young Poet Laureate
Lola, currently in Year 12, becomes the 11th Staffordshire Young Poet Laureate. Inspired by slam poetry, she wants to take poetry into schools and communities and encourage young people to find their own voice.
Lola said: "I want to share my passion for poetry with others and show how it can give people a voice. I hope it can have the same positive impact on others that it has had on me."
Follow Lola's poetry on Instagram at @lifethroughpoetry.lt.
Source: staffordshire.gov.uk
