22 year old IT student from Ipswich swapped computers for creative writing and ended up winning an annual competition.
Frankie Clarke won a contest that is run by Suffolk New College that was set up in memory of a talented former lecturer of the educational establishment called Steve Ransom. (This was the sixth anniversary of the competition).
Steve (from Ipswich) came into the teaching profession as part of a second career (before teaching he worked in insurance) and he has left a lasting legacy at his former place of work thanks to this annual celebration of creativity. (Steve sadly passed away in 2016 at the age of 45).
In total, over 90 students and staff submitted their work into eleven categories ranging from flash fiction to poetry and during an online awards ceremony it was Frankie who came out on top with his short story called Forgotten Soldier.
Frankie said: “I wrote about a fight in the Second World War where no one wins to highlight the futility of war. It felt good to win. I also won another writing competition organised by the Association of Colleges earlier in the year.
“Although I want to go into cyber security after College, I would consider writing in the future and I’d enter this competition again.”
Frankie received a £100.00 voucher and the overall winner was chosen by former East Anglia Daily Times editor and college ambassador, Terry Hunt.
Terry – who has supported this event since its inception – said: “I always enjoy taking part in this inspiring event. Clearly lots of people at Suffolk New College can use words in a poignant, powerful and beautiful way – there is so much talent there.”
Louisa Hubbard: “We would like to thank Terry and all our sponsors. And we would like to congratulate all our entrants and winners for taking part in this tribute to a much loved colleague.”
Mohamad Mustafi, 17, from Ipswich, won the ESOL prize for his heartfelt story about the love of his mother and family. They are all currently living in Iran and Mohamad is unsure of their whereabouts. On winning the prize, he said: “I was happy to win this competition.”