Law student surprises the competition with award winning poetry.

Creative licence doesn’t stretch far in the legal realm, but one Coventry University student has pushed the boundaries - and his own knowledge - to earn himself a £1,000 poetry prize.

Harry Evans, a second year law student, won the prestigious Frederick Holland Poetry Collection Prize earlier this year. The award - named in honour of the late poet who was one the city’s best-loved voices, and a key member of the Coventry Poets – motivates writers of all fields to try their hand at poetry.

The University’s Coventry Words magazine and blog established the competition in 2014, offering students the chance to improve their writing skills and test themselves amongst their peers. The competition acts as an important creative outlet for their students’ talents, one that’s had a positive response bringing together students from varying fields, all with a passion and flair for creative writing.

Hundreds of students entered the contest but Harry’s creative spark shined through, impressing the panel of judges – which included David Smith, trustee of the Frederick Holland fund. Harry’s prize-winning collection of poetry offered a quirky and heartfelt portrayal of life and love, and he was presented with the award by David Smith.

Speaking about his achievement, Harry said:

"It came as a huge shock to me when I found out I'd won; I've always written short stories and poems, and didn't think that the ones I submitted would even be published! Winning has really boosted my confidence in my writing, and I would like to thank the trustees of Fred Holland's estate for helping run this competition. I hope it continues for many years to come!"

Dr. Stephen Foster, principal lecturer in the School of Law, said:

“The School of Law was delighted to hear that one of its students – Harry Evans - had won a prestigious poetry award in competition with creative writers and other students in the University. Law places great weight on English language skills, including the structure and use of words, and to see a student using those skills in this context was very satisfying. Well done Harry!”

Alyson Morris, executive editor of Coventry Words and course director for the University’s English and Creative Writing degree, said: 

“Harry’s poems were by far the most original out of all the submissions. The quality of writing was of a high standard across the board, but it was particularly pleasing that a student from Law won this year. Competitions like this really enhance the student experience.”

Harry Evans’ award-winning poetry can be viewed at the Coventry Words online blog.

For further information, please contact James Stride, PR Assistant, Coventry University, on +44 (0)24 7765 4562 or email James.Stride@coventry.ac.uk.