The Mayor of Hertford’s Writing Competition Winners 2025 at the ‘Cherish Hertford’ Event

The afternoon event brought together representatives from across Hertford’s communities, including faith groups, charitable organisations,  community groups and others who are recognised for their contributions to the town.

Guests enjoyed an afternoon of reflection and appreciation for Hertford’s people and its environment, while being treated to performances from the newly formed Hertford Children’s Choir, the Take Note Choir and a reading from local writer Martina Swift (taken from ‘Herts Harvest’, the latest anthology produced from the Hertford Writer’s Circle)*

The event was also the culmination of the Mayor’s Writing Competition, on the theme ‘Hertford’s Magical Rivers’, which saw nearly 80 entries from children, aged from 7 years to adults. The entries were judged jointly by the Mayor, the Mayor's Consort - Jon Banks and local author Nick Hughes, with the winners and runners up from each of the four age categories being invited to read their poem or short story for guests at ‘Cherish Hertford’.

Congratulations to Amy McNab (aged 8), Joe Dixon (aged 13), Ashton Read (aged 16) and Jenny Mant who achieved first place in their age  categories. The winning and runner-up entries will soon be on display at Hertford Town and Tourism Information Centre to be read and enjoyed
by all.

The Mayor of Hertford, Councillor Rachel Carter said: “It's people who make our town and villages such vibrant places to be - I was delighted to welcome representatives and volunteers from groups across Hertford and Hertingfordbury, to celebrate their contribution to our community. It was brilliant to meet the worthy winners of my writing competition - and provide a showcase for their imagination and talent.”

*‘Herts Harvest’, the latest anthology produced from the Hertford Writer’s Circle is available to buy locally at Hertford Town and Tourism Information Centre.