People across Staffordshire and beyond are being invited to get creative as part of a new writing creative-writing competition inspired by the Staffy Trail.
This week's theme - ‘Staffy’s Tales’ - is encouraging people of all ages to choose their favourite Staffy sculpture from the art and heritage trail, and bring him to life through storytelling, poetry and imagination.
Chloe Breeze, local artist and designer of ‘Sonney’, based in Hanley Park, said:
“I absolutely loved creating Sonney from what the students of Abbey Hill Academy and PINC College said is their best day out in Staffordshire.
"Now it’s time for everyone to get inspired by their favourite Staffy and write some paw-some words about a day in his life. What has their Staffy seen that day? Who has visited? What makes his town special?
"It’s another wonderful way for people to get creative and get involved in the Staffy Trail.”
Aspiring writers can take part by writing a short story or poem of up to 250 words, or even by crafting a powerful six-word story.
Pearl Knight-Dutton is Staffordshire’s current Young Poet Laureate and will join Chloe to choose the winning entries.
She said:
“I’m delighted to be part of Staffy’s Tales week because it’s all about inspiring creativity across the community.
"You don’t have to be a brilliant writer to create something that speaks to people. I’m really looking forward to seeing what people’s six words are – a small amount of words can often speak just as loudly as far more.
"Whatever your age and however experienced you are as a writer, this is a great opportunity to go on the Staffy Trail, find your favourite Staffy and explore his world.”
Hayley Coles, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said:
"The response to the Staffy Trail has been fantastic with people really taking Staffy to their hearts.
"He’s more than a mascot, he’s our county’s storyteller and is all about celebrating Staffordshire’s creativity and passion for our communities. This competition gives everyone another opportunity to discover or rediscover the Staffy Trail and explore our county in another way, so I’m urging everyone to get involved and create!”
A winner will be chosen for each of the eleven Staffy sculptures, with the best entry winning a free family day out. Winning pieces will also be showcased on the Visit Staffordshire website.
The competition is now officially open to the public. Entries should be submitted via email to staffy@staffordshire.gov.uk by 5pm on Wednesday 8 July.
