What makes Market Drayton such a special place? For local poet George Ruddock, it’s the people, the events, the community spirit and the everyday moments that make our town feel like home. And now he’s captured it all in a new collection of poetry.
We recently caught up with George to talk about his new book, Our Town, a collection of poems inspired by life in Market Drayton, its people and the many events and activities that bring the community together.
George might not consider himself a local celebrity, but he’s certainly become a familiar face around town, whether he’s helping to encourage local musicians, taking part in community groups or sharing his latest poems.
Inspired by Life in Market Drayton
When asked what inspired him to write his latest book, George’s answer was wonderfully straightforward.
“Just living here and seeing what’s going on and scribbling about it!”
His poems celebrate the things that make Market Drayton unique, from the Ginger and Spice Festival and the Festival of Lights to the Festival Drayton Centre and the everyday experiences that give the town its character.
Rather than concentrating on famous landmarks or historical events, George has tried to capture something much more personal – the feeling of belonging to a friendly, welcoming community.
Having moved to Market Drayton nearly four years ago, George has certainly made the most of life here.
“We moved here nearly four years ago and [it was the] best thing we ever did. It’s an amazing place.”
More Than Just a Poet
George’s enthusiasm for Market Drayton extends well beyond his writing.
He’s involved in local groups, including play-reading activities at the library and through the University of the Third Age (u3a).
He’s also helped to bring music to the town centre, encouraging local singers and musicians to perform at the market.
It’s something he’s particularly keen to continue, and he would love to hear from local singers who haven’t yet had the opportunity to perform in the market.
These contributions, often made quietly and without fuss, are exactly the sort of things that help make Market Drayton such a lively and welcoming place.
A Poem for Our Town
During our interview, we couldn’t resist asking George to read one of his poems.
After a little persuasion, he chose a poem about Market Drayton itself, celebrating its friendly community, wonderful events, the Festival Drayton Centre, the library and, of course, the town’s famous gingerbread heritage.
The poem also reflects on the Festival of Lights, when hundreds of people of all ages come together to welcome the Christmas season.
It’s a lovely reminder that Market Drayton is about much more than its shops, buildings and attractions. It’s the people who bring the town to life.
And judging by the response George has already received, his poems are striking a chord with local residents.
He’s been delighted, and a little surprised, by the positive comments and encouragement he’s received on Facebook.
One of the Friendliest Places to Live
Perhaps the most touching part of our conversation came when George explained what he hoped readers would take away from his book.
“I think I’ve just tried to capture the friendliness and the essence of the place, which is amazing.”
Having lived in several different places before settling in Market Drayton, George believes the town has something particularly special.
“It is one of the friendliest places I’ve ever been.”
It’s a sentiment we hear time and again from residents, visitors and people who have chosen to make Market Drayton their home.
There’s a genuine warmth here, whether it’s someone stopping for a chat in the market, neighbours helping one another or volunteers working behind the scenes to make events happen.
George’s poetry captures that spirit beautifully.
Discover Market Drayton Through George’s Eyes
For anyone who already knows and loves Market Drayton, George’s collection is a celebration of familiar places, events and experiences.
For those who haven’t yet visited, it offers a glimpse into the character of a traditional Shropshire market town with a thriving community, a busy events calendar and a wonderfully friendly welcome.
We’re grateful to George for taking the time to share his story, his poetry and his enthusiasm for Market Drayton.
And who knows? Perhaps we’ll persuade him to come back for another poetry reading!
Watch Our Interview with George Ruddock
Hear George talk about his inspiration, his involvement in the community and why he believes moving to Market Drayton was one of the best decisions he’s ever made.
Watch the full interview:
To discover more about Market Drayton, including places to visit, local businesses, markets and upcoming events, explore www.makeitmarketdrayton.com.
Make it Market Drayton is a town council initiative.
