THE Hampshire Poet for 2012 has been named as Brian Evans-Jones from Winchester.

In his role as Hampshire Poet, he will write about the county council’s cultural projects and activities during the year.

He will also be working with new and upcoming writers of all ages.

Hampshire County Council asked writers to send two poems and a personal statement.

About 60 applications were received. Poets were asked to say what they could bring to, and gain from the role.

Mr Evans-Jones, teaches creative writing at the University of Winchester and the Open University.

The contest began in 2008 to celebrate the National Year of Reading.