Lyrical Claire hits right notes

A former science teacher who writes poetry as a hobby has hit on a winning formula with her Shrewsbury themed Christmas carol chosen to star in Shrewsbury’s annual festive video. 

Claire Bryers, a 31-year-old mother of three from Copthorne in Shrewsbury, won the competition organised by Shrewsbury BID to create locally-themed lyrics to the seasonal classic, Silent Night.

 Her verses will not only form the soundtrack to the film but will also shape its storyline and scenes, with Claire set to make a cameo appearance. 

Delighted Claire said: “With three children under four I don’t have much free time but I like to write poetry for fun. I have never entered my work in a competition before; I was thrilled to hear I had won. 

“I was inspired by Shrewsbury’s heritage and traditions and tried to visualise how the video would look to help me come up with the right words.” 

Kirsten Henly, Shrewsbury BID Executive Director, said: “The competition really struck a chord and we had some fantastic entries. Claire’s verses captured the traditional spirit of Christmas and brings home how Shrewsbury is extra special at this time of year.” 

The competition was judged by Kirsten Henly, songwriter/producer Jonny Amos and creative film directors Tom Middleton and Miche Parkinson from SMN Film who will again produce this year’s video following their success with last year’s festive film. 

The winning Shrewsbury carol will be professionally produced and recorded to accompany the video which launches in November to promote the town’s seasonal offer. Claire’s prize includes dinner for two in Shrewsbury on Lights Switch-On Night and a £100 shopping voucher.