We would like to thank all the entrants, we received an overwhelming response. The poems were certainly of a very high standard and we thoroughly enjoyed reading them all.

Congratulations to our three winners!

First Place – Winter

Winter

Winter is for young folk, not for the old
Kids like ice and sliding, we don’t like the cold
Frosty steps are just too risky,
Just tread slowly, not so frisky

But winter has its compensations
For those of us who draw our pensions
No coal to store or fires to light
Just flick a switch and all is bright

We don’t have to rush to office or shop
Or crowd on trains with commuters who cough
We enjoy our cosy winter quarters
With frequent visits from sons and daughters

With time to read, new hobbies to enjoy
New things to learn and old skills to employ
And winter brings Christmas, a time to treasure
“Strictly” is over, but TV still gives pleasure

New Year gives yet more celebration
“Must eat less” that’s my resolution
Only three months of winter are still in hand
Before days get longer and holidays are planned

And we must greet summer and all that it brings
Global warming and droughts, insects that sting
We’ll dream of winter and fondly remember
How much we revelled in mid December

Joan Best, Forum Court

Second Place – Imagine Winter

Imagine Winter

Imagine winter and what do you see?
A frosty pavement or a leafless tree?
Short, cold days and long dark nights?
Close the curtains and switch on the light.
We might have some snow as the winter creeps on;
Search out the wellies, warm hats to put on.
Pavements are icy; we daren’t venture out,
But Christmas is coming – we’ll cheer up no doubt.
For this is the time when we think of new birth;
Christ as a baby – and hope fills the earth.
We notice new life as some green shoots appear;
Things will get better! It’s almost New Year!
Winter’s still with us but soon will come Spring;
Look forward, be hopeful for all it will bring.

Margaret Lockwood, Plymouth Court

Third Place – A Winter’s Joy

A Winter’s Joy

The snowflakes fall so soft and light,
A blanket of white, so pure and bright.
The world is hushed, the sky is gray,
But in my heart, it’s Christmas Day.

The fire is warm, the candles bright,
The tree is trimmed, a lovely sight.
The carolers sing, the children play,
And in my heart, it’s Christmas Day.

The stars above, so clear and bright,
A peaceful scene, a holy night.
The angels sing, the shepherds pray,
And in my heart, it’s Christmas Day.

The winter’s chill, so cold and stark,
But in my heart, it’s warm and dark.
For in this season, love abounds,
And in my heart, true joy is found.

Miles Paterson, Margaret Court