A specially commissioned poem about Lichfield has been gifted to the city during a dedication ceremony. Lichfield business-owner Laura Evans commissioned local poet Joss Musgrove Knibb to write about the city. This is the first time a Lichfield poet has been commissioned to write a work about the city with the sole intention of giving it to residents for their enjoyment.
In the presence of Deputy Lieutenant Jeremy Cotton, the High Sheriff of Staffordshire Pritpal Nagi MBE DL, community leaders, school children, businesspeople and the Dean of Lichfield Cathedral the Rt. Rev. Jan McFarlane, Joss and Laura presented the city with an ornate hand-made scroll. The poem, titled Lichfield From Above, was received on behalf of city by the Mayor Rosie Harvey-Coggins and Louise Fleming. Louise is the CEO of arts and cultural venue The Hub at St Mary’s which will become guardians of the scroll, on behalf of the city, displaying it for everyone to see and enjoy.
The original idea for the poem came from a conversation between Laura Evans and Lichfield resident Julian Fisher. They approached local poet Joss, all agreeing that they wanted the poem to celebrate the city and be enjoyed by its proud residents both now and by future generations.
As well as being kept on display in The Hub, every school in the city will receive a copy of Lichfield From Above for its library. Also, as part of the project, local schools joined in a competition for pupils to describe in one word what Lichfield meant to them. Joss led a team of judges who considered over 220 entries and chose words like Magical, Cool, Fun and Love. All winners were presented with their own copy of Lichfield From Above plus creative writing gifts.
Laura Evans said, “I am incredibly passionate about supporting the arts, and commissioning a local Lichfield poet to write about our city; to celebrate its people, its culture and its unique character has been a dream come true.
“I did not anticipate how a small idea could grow into such a wonderful community project bringing so many people together. It felt fitting that the poem should belong to the people of Lichfield and remain accessible for years to come.
“A huge thank you to Julian and Joss for joining me on this journey, it has been an absolute joy to work with them. Thanks also to Daniel Buckroyd of The Lichfield Garrick for being the emcee at our special event. Thank you to Lichfield City Council for supporting the project and final thanks to The Hub for agreeing to look after this precious poem.”
“I am so very lucky to call the city my home. It is not just rich in beautiful buildings, culture, and history but in people – this project is proof. The poem has highlighted the fantastic community of Lichfield, school children, businesses, community groups, and volunteers.”
Joss Musgrove Knibb said, “When Laura and Julian approached me to write the poem, I didn’t want the work to solely concentrate on Lichfield’s beauty and rich history. Although both are a vital part of this fascinating place, they’re only part of the story. This city was made and is maintained today by its people – their skills, trades and commitment. The poem is a celebration of all Lichfeldians’ heritage and place in our community. Lichfield is a historic, beautiful and wonderous place, and its people ensure it remains a vibrant and welcoming city.
“This poem is a personal thank you to the place I call home. Today, we’ve celebrated the city with dignitaries, community leaders, volunteers, and friends at our special event. We’ve engaged with local school children, encouraging them to take joy in their own creative writing. The whole thing is a dream come true for any poet. Moving forward, I’m very excited by the prospect of the poem inspiring other artforms, including an exploration of the poem being set to music by the wonderful Cathy Lamb, our local Music Share award-winning organist, conductor, animateur and teacher.”
Louise Fleming, CEO of The Hub at St Mary’s said, “We are absolutely delighted that The Hub has been chosen as the home for this beautiful poem. It captures so much of what makes Lichfield special – not just its rich history and heritage, but the people, creativity and community spirit that bring our city to life.
“As a venue at the heart of Lichfield’s cultural and community life, we feel it’s a wonderful fit for The Hub. We’re proud to be looking after the poem on behalf of the city and to ensure that residents and visitors can enjoy it for generations to come.”
Lichfield
Cathedral Hearing
6a Sandford Street
Lichfield
WS13 6QA
Email
laura@cathedralhearing.co.uk
Phone
01543 319641
