A primary school pupil from Bradford has secured victory in a youth poetry contest.
Ayaan Irfan, a student at Lilycroft Primary School, claimed first prize in the junior division of this year’s Saltaire Festival with his composition titled Echoes of the Aire.
The achievement was celebrated by staff at the school, with English subject leader Mrs Ajaib expressing immense pride in the young winner.
According to school representatives, Ayaan has dedicated considerable effort to improving both his written and verbal abilities, and his assured delivery during the stage performance was noted as particularly noteworthy.
The submission was described as an accomplished piece of literary work that merited the accolade it received from festival organisers.
Judicial panellists highlighted the poem’s sophisticated conceptualisation and imaginative approach, as well as the competitor’s self-assured presentation during the live performance held at the Kirkgate Community Centre in Shipley.
The judging panel commented that the work captured the essence of Saltaire and reflected the natural characteristics of the local waterway.
The ceremony showcased emerging and established poetic talents through readings by invited contributors.
Among the younger participants, nine-year-old Abdullah Ouedraogo from Margaret McMillan Primary School earned second place in the junior classification.
Both educational institutions form part of The Priestley Academy Trust network, which encompasses additional schools throughout the Manningham district.