Ralph Ockendon took up writing poetry regularly some four years ago. He has always read widely, with a particular interest in poetry. Ralph was  head of English in a comprehensive school before he retired. He tries to keep abreast of new poets, reading magazines such as Poetry London; Poetry Review; Poetry and  material about modern poetry by people like Sean O’Brien; Ian Gregson and Don Paterson.
Ralph has had poems included in two anthologies of new poetry and have had some shortlisted in competitions. He feels the need to change up a gear – attempting to get a pamphlet published being the first move.