Elspeth appointed as first East Riding Young Poet Laureate

Following a competitive selection process, Elspeth was chosen by East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s library team for her passionate voice, innovative approach to poetry, and her commitment to engaging and inspiring communities through words.

Designed to develop an early-career creative aged 18-25, the Young Poet Laureate scheme appoints a talented poet as an official representative of East Riding Libraries.

The scheme will provide six months of artistic development, including three months of mentorship with the current East Riding Poet Laureate, Cassandra Parkin, followed by a further three months under the guidance of the incoming 2026 Laureate.

Elspeth will play a vital role in shaping the future of poetry across the East Riding, using her unique voice to connect with and inspire people of all ages.

Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “We are incredibly proud to appoint Elspeth as the first East Riding Young Poet Laureate.

“Nurturing creative talent is an important part of our cultural offer, and this scheme gives young people a unique platform to develop their voice and share it with our communities. Elspeth’s passion and originality shone through during the selection process, and I’m delighted to see her inspire others across the East Riding.”

Elspeth said: “I am incredibly honoured and excited to have the opportunity to share my love of poetry with others across the East Riding.

“Language is how we make sense of the world around us, how we connect with others, how we understand ourselves. As East Riding Young Poet Laureate, I want to expand people’s horizons when it comes to poetry.”