The attractions annual poetry competition is now open for entries, with the opportunity to win cash prizes.

Inspired and informed by the historical events in the Black Country but, like the area itself, with limitless possibilities, this year's theme is 'Earth & Air'.

Entries can interpret the theme of the free-to-enter competition as historical, industrial, scientific, ecological, environmental, personal, reflective, or in any other way.

Dave Reeves, the Black Country Museum's poet-in-residence, said "Just as the Black Country itself has taken the elements and shaped them, so the theme for the competition is open to endless interpretation and creativity".

The competition is open to adults aged 18 years and over, and to poetry in any style. The first prize is £100, a family ticket to the Museum and publication on the museum website, and there are other cash prizes and opportunities for publication.

Judges will include the Black Country Living Museum Poet-in-Residence, Dave Reeves; the Forward Prize winning poet, Liz Berry and Mel Weatherley, Head of Learning at the Black Country Living Museum.

The closing date for entries is 5pm on Friday 29 July and full details and entry form for the competition can be found on the Adult Learning pages of the museum's website at https://www.bclm.co.uk/learning/annual-prize-poetry-competition-2016/457.htm