Two Somerville students were shortlisted for this year’s Jon Stallworthy Poetry Prize.

Harry Ledgerwood and Grace Copeland are both studying for the MSt in Creative Writing. Somerville has a history of being home to students on the University’s Creative Writing program, such as Booker-shortlisted writer Daisy Johnson.

Harry Ledgerwood and Grace Copeland

The Jon Stallworthy Poetry Prize was set up in memory of the late Professor Jon Stallworthy (1935-2014), poet and Fellow of Wolfson College, and is open to all postgraduate students at the University of Oxford. This year’s theme was ‘Borders’, and was judged by Professor Bernard O’Donoghue and the Oxford Professor of Poetry, A.E. Stallings.

The awards ceremony took place at Wolfson College on in January. Watch Grace and Harry read their shortlisted poems at the event here, or read Harry’s poem The Oyster Locksmith and Grace’s poem’s Voiced.

Both Grace and Harry finish their MSt this September, and will be continuing to pursue their writing. We wish them the best of luck and will be looking out for their future publications! 

 

Further reading?

Professor Philip Poole receives ultimate recognition as Fellow of the Royal Society

Learn More
20 May 2025
Professor Philip Poole receives ultimate recognition as Fellow of the Royal Society

Rediscovering an Old Master with Xander Haveron-Jones

Learn More
16 May 2025
Rediscovering an Old Master with Xander Haveron-Jones

Remembering Our House of Lords Celebration for Principal Jan Royall

Learn More
14 May 2025
Remembering Our House of Lords Celebration for Principal Jan Royall