A way with words and and a keen eye for observation has brought Hollywood recognition for Oxford poet Sue Walker.

Sue Walker

She was honoured by her peers at a convention in the Californian entertainment capital, when a piece of her work was singled out for praise by the American-based International Society of Poets.

Her piece, God Rap -- reproduced right -- which she read aloud to 2,000 fellow poets and their guests, came fifth in a list of ten pieces chosen by judges from a shortlist of 100.

Former teacher Ms Walker, who has lived in North Hinksey Lane, North Hinksey, all her life, received a $500 prize, a silver bowl, a congratulatory plaque, medallion and presents.

The 53-year-old, who only began writing poetry seriously after the death of her father ten years ago, said: "I belong to the society and entered one of my poems, and as a result was invited to the convention.

"It was huge hotel with five studios and I chose to perform another of my pieces, God Rap.

"At the final presentation in the huge auditorium, they announced the ten best poems and I was the first name mentioned. You could have knocked me down I was so shocked. I had to walk up to the stage and read my poem in front of these people, listening and looking at me on two huge screens.

"It's only starting to hit me now -- I'm still reeling from it.

"What was so wonderful was the absolute generosity of the others taking part."

Ms Walker trained in music, English and drama at the former Culham College near Abingdon.

A former deputy headteacher at St Thomas More Catholic Primary School in Kidlington, she left to teach adults behind bars.

She began teaching music and computer skills at Oxford Prison, and later became manager of the remand education centre at Bullingdon Prison, near Bicester.

Ms Walker and her partner Tim Moles have now composed and produced Ag Borradh, which means 'There is a quivering life about to break forth' -- which they describe as a Celtic reflection through words and music. It will be read to audiences on the four Sundays prior to Christmas, starting at The Holy Rood Catholic Church, Abingdon Road, Oxford, this Sunday, at 5pm.

Subsequent readings will be held at The Rosary Room, Yarnells Hill, North Hinksey.

Call 01865 240167 for details.