The popularity and significance of the mushaira was plain to see, with the hall at this year's venue soon packed to capacity, and many members of the audience having to stand. 

Poets were gathered from British Asian communities across the country, and also included representatives from Write Out Loud (one of the University's educational partners), whose poems were warmly received.

Guests of honour included Mr Yusuf Bhailok, a well known and respected local businessman, who spoke to great effect about the position of the Asian communities in British society.

Martin Thomasson (Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing) was a key note speaker on the University's behalf, taking as his theme, 'That which unites us is stronger than that which divides us.' Martin was also privileged to launch an important new poetry collection, From London with Love, written by Mr Siraj Patel (General Secretary of the Gujerati Writers' Guild).

One special treat for all those present was a recital of prize-winning poems by local school children on the topic of 'Britishness.' The poems were funny, moving, perceptive, and delivered with confidence and maturity; contributing greatly to the success of the evening and offering hope for the continuation of the poetic tradition in the British Asian community and beyond.