PEOPLE across the region are being invited to get creative and show their literary skills as part of two annual poetry competitions.

Each year, those aged between five and 18 years old are invited to explore the world of poetry for the Charles Causley Young Persons Poetry Competition — however, it is not just young people who are being asked to show off their skills, as the Launceston-based charity has launched its Charles Causley International Poetry Competition.

A spokesperson said: “The Charles Causley Trust has announced the launch of its annual Charles Causley International Poetry Competition. The competition seeks to shine a light on some of the best poets around. The theme for his year is ‘family’, in all its meanings.

“Entries close at midnight on January 4, 2026, and the top prize includes £1,000 and a weeklong residency in Cyprus Well, poet Charles Causley’s former home in Launceston.”

The charity has explained that the Charles Causley 2026 Young Persons Poetry Competition, which is now live, is the perfect chance for families, carers, and educators to encourage the young creatives in their lives to discover the joy of poetry.

The trust has also explained that the initiative builds on Causley’s legacy as a teacher and firm believer of the power of literature in shaping young minds.

Winners of both competitions will be celebrated in person in an awarding ceremony at the Launceston Poetry Festival, running from May 1 to 3.

Rita Teixeira, development officer for the Charles Causley Trust, said: “It is always a pleasure to provide both young and worldwide poets with the opportunity to be heard, read and awarded. These competitions mean a lot to us as a charity – a chance to honour what Charles valued most: everyone’s right to a creative voice.”