Still time for Stockton wordsmiths to enter poetry competition

The North of Tees Dementia Collaborative is seeking entries to the competition carrying the theme 'Uniting Against Dementia' and there are three age categories available to compete in - five to 11 years, 12 to 18 years and over 18 years old.

The aim of the competition is to help people of all ages understand dementia and the effect it has on people living with the condition and their families.

The deadline for entries is Saturday 13 May and poems can be submitted at www.stockton.gov.uk/DAWpoetry

Councillor Jim Beall, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Health, said: "This poetry competition is a fresh way of increasing awareness and understanding of dementia and how it impacts on those with the condition and the people around them.

"The fact that it is open for our children and young people to enter is positive because it will encourage them to start thinking about dementia and have an understanding of it from an early age.

"It's a good way to mark Dementia Awareness Week which starts on Sunday 14 May, which aims to raise awareness, offer help and understanding, and improve care.

"There'll be plenty going on during that week including market stalls across the Borough, a sponsored fun walk at Tees Barrage and the judging of the poetry competition itself by the Stockton-on-Tees Dementia Advisory Group."

Three finalists from each category will be invited to a special awards ceremony on Monday 19 June where awards will be presented by celebrated writer and performer Kate Fox.

All entries will be entered into a draw to win an electronic tablet generously donated by Tesco.