AN Isle of Wight poet has had her platinum jubilee poem acknowledged by the Queen.

Chrissie Saunders, of Ryde, said: "I decided to write this simple poem in the form of a traditional sonnet at the time of the Queen’s accession in February and decided, like many thousands of people congratulating her I’m sure, to send my tribute to her. So, as you can imagine I was thrilled to receive her card in acknowledgement!

Chrissie started writing poetry about four years ago when she was looking for a new hobby and she joined the Ryde Poetry Workshop.

Scroll down to read Chrissie's poem...

Isle of Wight County Press: The card which Chrissie received from the Queen.The card which Chrissie received from the Queen.

She continued: "Then we had lockdown, but I found the King Lear Arts Club online, which offered a certain amount of tuition and set weekly competitive exercises. I found I enjoyed the challenge, so got hooked and started writing regularly.

"When the arts club project finished, I found another weekly Zoom class which also offered tuition in a relaxed and friendly manner with people throughout the country.

"Also, the Isle of Wight’s own Independent Arts started up their Looking Out from Lockdown gallery, to which I contributed several poems.

"When restrictions were eased this was followed by their exhibitions and an opportunity to read some of my work.

"Nowadays, my local classes have started up again and I have also joined in the spoken word events at Monkton Arts in Ryde."

The tale behind Chrissie's poem is one of a number of Isle of Wight stories to feature in our special commemorative publication.

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee: Hampshire and the Isle of Wight celebrates 70 years and you can order it HERE 

Isle of Wight County Press: Poet Chrissie Saunders doing a poetry reading.Poet Chrissie Saunders doing a poetry reading.

Our Queen

by Chrissie Saunders

 

Head of our Nation, Elizabeth our Queen,

Of steadfast composure with radiant smile,

So widely respected, regal, serene,

Honouring her duties all the while.

 

When adversity she is forced to face

Throughout many a long and trying day,

She accepts it with dignity and grace,

A quiet understanding as is her way.

 

Knowing of national and world affairs,

She accepted her role as was her fate

Showing those she meets just how much she cares;

So, her jubilee we commemorate.

Come now, let’s join together hand in hand

To celebrate her reign across the land.