A new poem has been commissioned to celebrate the area of Whitefriargate for World Poetry Day 2021.
Hull’s High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) has partnered with Humber Mouth literature festival and Wrecking Ball Press to commission poet Vicky Foster to write a new poem that reflects Whitefriargate’s history, people and community.
As Whitefriargate’s poet-in-residence for 2021, Vicky Foster will draw on key features of the historic street to highlight its long standing role in the story of the city and the people who live and work there.
Councillor Daren Hale, portfolio holder for economic investment and regeneration at Hull City Council, said: “We are delighted that Humber Mouth is working in partnership again with Wrecking Ball Press and with poet Vicky Foster on this commission for High Street Heritage Action Zone, and we are especially pleased to announce this project as part of a celebration of UNESCO World Poetry Day 2021.”
Vicky Foster said: “It’s a huge honour to be asked to write about a place that’s central to the lives of so many people, and with such a rich history. I’m excited to explore how the stories of people who work, shop and walk in Whitefriargate intersect with my own memories and experiences.”
Chris Collett, Public Engagement Manager for Historic England in Yorkshire, said: “Whitefriargate has a rich heritage, which should provide a great source of inspiration for Vicky’s poem. We are really pleased to be funding this project through the High Street Heritage Action Zone and look forward to experiencing this new tribute to the historic street.”
This project forms part of the community engagement strand of the High Street Heritage Action Zone on Whitefriargate in Hull. Plans on how audiences can engage with the poem will be revealed later in the year.
