INTERNATIONAL POETRY PRIZE IN MEMORY OF DISTINGUISHED ABERDEEN POET TO LAUNCH ON WORLD POETRY DAY

The international poetry competition in memory of distinguished Aberdeen poet Gerard Rochford returns on World Poetry Day, 21 March 2026.

The Gerard Rochford Poetry Prize 2026 – organised by Rochford's Literary Executors in collaboration with the creative platform Mist and Mountain – invites writers to submit an original poem on the theme of 'Journey'.

The winner will receive £200 and a specially commissioned ceramic bowl featuring an excerpt of Gerard Rochford’s poetry, while two runners up will each receive small ceramic bowls and £50. The bowls have been handmade by Gerard’s daughter, ceramicist and painter, Lucy Carolan.

Award-winning poet, novelist, traditional storyteller and singer, Sheena Blackhall, who was a friend of Gerard, will judge the competition finalists.

The inaugural Gerard Rochford Poetry Prize, held in 2021, attracted an impressive 736 entries from over 40 countries.

The closing date for entries to the Gerard Rochford Poetry Prize 2026 is 30 June and the winners will be announced on Wednesday 30 September 2026. The competition is free to enter.