Dave, Bard of the bar... COMPETITION: Dad-of-two in bid to become Britain's premier pub poet.

Byline: Chris Henwood

A BLACK Country bard of the bar is hoping to be crowned the nation's premier pub poet after penning a verse about the pints at his pub.

West Bromwich born-andbred David Baggott is through to the national finals of a poetry competition with the inspirational verse Tranquillity Amongst Chaos about his local, The Foaming Jug, in Codsall.

The 36-year-old life assurance manager's piece will be up against the work of 22 other poets as he represents Birmingham and the Black Country in the competition organised by the Vintage Inn pub chain.

Perton dad-of-two David, whose poem tells of Venetian Black Country waterways and faggots and peas, said: "I am a little surprised, although obviously delighted with the win.

"I feel my experiences gained living in and around the Black Country, have provided me with some poignant memories over the years, which have obviously proved useful when penning this poem."

The competition is part of Vintage Inn's Summer Fes-t ivaof Golden Ales, and will see a champion crowned following an online vote which closes on August 31.

Stuart Terry, landlord of The Foaming Jug Vintage Inn, said: "I said at the start of this festival, can there be anything more inspirational, when it comes to writing poetry, than enjoying a pint of golden ale on a warm summer's evening? "Well, we had loads of great entries and judging by the high standard of the verse there are a lot of talented writers out there suitable inspired by our golden ales.

"David's poem stood out, however, as it was well crafted, beautifully worded, evocative and very topical. I'm sure his winning poem will do us proud in the final."

Poems can be viewed * and voted on at www.vintageinn.co.uk/offer/pubpoetvote/

Tranquillity Amongst Chaos

Dawn is breaking, there is not a sound, As along Venetian Black Country waterways the early morning runner does pound, With only tethered horses who nonchalantly stare and glare, This feeling is almost as good as the local traditional fare "How bin ya" the dog walker does suddenly say, end of peace and the start of the day, Journey to work is a frantic affair, half an hour for two miles, oh why do not more people car share? Steeped in history is his making of chain, although the laptop has taken away much of the pain, Orders for this, orders for that, at times he feels walked on like a doormat Home time comes, oh what a relief, the importance of tea is his only belief, Faggots and peas a favourite dish, much more enjoyable than meat or fish The kids are in bed, and all is quiet, but last on his mind are thoughts of a diet, No, off to the pub for a drink with a friend, there is a whole bad world in need of mend Golden Brains and scratchings are the preferred choice tonight, As war, politics and crime are all put right, Dusk is upon him, in this relaxed state, ready for tomorrow, with a new clean slate.

DAVID BAGGOTT

CAPTION(S):

Good cheer: Dave in The Foaming Jug.