BUDDING bards are invited to compose a poem to celebrate Shakespeare's birthday.

Wednesday, April 23, is not only St George's Day, but is also the birthday of the famous playwright and poet.

Now Chris Jones, landlord of the Three Cups in Stamford Bridge, is inviting guests to write a Shakespearean verse about the inn. The poem must mention the name of the pub and St George's Day.

The writer of the best verse will win a book of Shakespeare's sonnets, and will see their poem on blackboards in the inn. Entries should be handed in at the inn.

Updated: 11:02 Monday, April 21, 2003