Poignant poem strikes a chord with poet Tony Walsh

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International pupils at Kingsway Park High School in Rochdale have received top marks from famous poet Tony Walsh following their moving work in the aftermath of the Manchester Arena attack.

The pupils study on the school’s Alpha language proficiency course, which works on developing English language skills for new, international arrivals.

They worked with local organisation Cartwheel Arts as part of a writing project and developed this poem the day after the attack.

Tony Walsh was very impressed by the work of the pupils, he said: "People often turn to the reading or writing of poetry in difficult times.

"It can help us process our thoughts and express our emotions in a profound and powerful way. For these young people to have been supported to write this just a few days after the terrible bombing in Manchester is an important thing.

"They have made a beautiful statement deserving of a wide audience in Rochdale and far beyond. There is much wisdom to be found in their lines which, as adults, we would do well to reflect on.

"I thank them for echoing the 'Choose Love' message from the end of my poem at the Manchester vigil and wish them all the very best."

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