A writer from South Woodford was honoured for her poem celebrating 'unsung heroes' (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

A writer from South Woodford was honoured for her poem celebrating 'unsung heroes'

10:44am Monday 19th October 2009 in

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A PROLIFIC writer was honoured for her poetry at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Penny Freeston, of Derby Road in South Woodford, was awarded second place in the John Clare Poetry Prize for her poem 'The Carers', which pays tribute to the unsung heroes of everyday life.

All the finalists were invited to read their work on Speaker's Steps at Westminster Hall on National Poetry Day (October 8), which this year took 'Heroes and Heroines' as its theme.

Penny said: "It was a lovely occasion. I was really quite chuffed!

“There are elderly partners looking after those with dementia or ageing parents with grown-up children who have special needs who society barely notices. I hope my poem draws attention to them.”

The retired teacher has published over 20 books of poetry and prose. Her latest novel, Predella, is a romantic tale set in Florence and is on sale at the Village Bookshop in Woodford Green.

She is very involved in the literary scene around the area and organised several readings during the recent Woodford Festival.

For more information on the competition, visit clarecottage.org.