YOUNG people in Wyre Forest can still enter poetry competition Word Up! before entries close at the end of the month.

The deadline for entries for Word Up! closes at midnight on December 31.

The competition is open to young people between the ages of 13 and 19 who live in Worcestershire, or attend a school, college, university or youth club in the county.

They are asked to submit two poems, one on the subject of 'freedom' and another on a subject of their choice.

Councillor Lucy Hodgson, Worcestershire County Council's cabinet member for communities, said: "This can be an emotional time of year. Writing poetry can be a great outlet to express yourself.

"Why not enter the Word Up! competition?"

Natalie McVey, service lead for young people, added: "It's very straight forward to enter the competition.

"It doesn't matter if you haven't written before - we still want to hear from you and you never know where it will lead."

Current Young Poet Laureate, Oakley Flanagan, is nearing the end of his reign but as enjoyed his experience, which has seen him working to promote issues affecting young people throughout his year.

Entries can be made by visiting worcestershire.gov.uk/wordup.

For more information call Natalie McVey on 01905 765754.