The newly appointed Fenland Poet Laureate is inviting poetry commissions from local residents and organisations.

Jonathan Totman, who won the title last month, will spend a year helping events across the region and promoting the local poetry scene.

An experienced writer and performer, Jonathan is keen to hear from anyone who would like to commission a poem of local interest to mark a significant date, for instance, or to celebrate a project, event or local hero.

Jonathan is also available for readings and workshops. He is particularly interested in hearing from individuals and groups whose voices may be under-represented within the community, and those who might not usually have opportunities to enjoy poetry. He can be contacted by email at jonathan.totman@gmail.com or via his website www.jonathantotman.co.uk.

The poetry competition, in its fourth year, received more than 130 entries. The finalists in each category were invited to read their poetry at the awards ceremony, which took place at the Wisbech and Fenland Museum.

Jonathan, of Ely, impressed judges with his poem Wicken Fen for its subtle, deliberate pacing and haunting sparseness, which perfectly expressed the feeling of walking in the Fens.

Upon receiving the award, he said: “I’m over the moon – and still can’t quite believe it.”

The competition receives support from ADeC and the Wisbech and Fenland Museum, and funding from the Wisbech Town Council and the Friends of the Wisbech and Fenland Museum.