My Angel of the North by Jessica Ritchie

This is my home, where I stand,
A massive stage, where I act.
The blazing summer sun makes my steel coat
Magenta pink.

I am powerful and protective and,
However much the howling wind howls,
It cannot pull me down
Or destroy my iron heart.

Thoughts of pride and honour flow
As people greet me and talk to me.
Rusty overcoat, never!
It is my royal gown that I wear to entertain.

With legs which are strong and lusty,
Wings that are fifty four metres of strong shining armour,
All twenty metres of my body are filled
With pride and friendliness.

With mind of joy and body of strength,
Nothing can part me from Gateshead.
My gentle, loving wings will hug my inspirational town.

Happiness flows to my fingertips like
Blood travelling to the heart
As I watch the children playing at my feet.
My eyes glisten as an invisible smile is formed.

How old am I? I have no age.
My loving yet cold heart will live on until beyond your time

By Jessica Ritchie, Aged 10 years, July 2003
Kells Lane Primary School, Gateshead, Joint Winner.