A POET went back to her roots to help celebrate National Poetry Week.

Anita Sackett's poem Sunslice was accepted for publication by the Poetry Society, which is organising the week on the theme of food.

Mrs Sackett's poem, a description of cuisine with Jamaican influence, will be distributed to schools.

Mrs Sackett, who grew up in Rushden, said: "It is very exciting to have a poem taken up by the society. I have had work published before, but this is a step up."

Mrs Sackett's poem draws on her experience of living in Jamaica. She has also been speaking in schools to encourage children's interest in poetry.

Mrs Sackett, who now lives in Chelmsford, has also lived in Malta, Africa, New Zealand and Hong Kong, and she documents her experiences in a book of verse, The Street to Mango Moon.

She said: "The book covers a range of topics, from growing up and playing games in Sartoris Road in Rushden to diving into an exotic pool in the Caribbean."

Her book is on sale [2004] at Higham Ferrers Bookshop for £5. Profits will be divided between Interact Charity and Farleigh Hospice in Chelmsford.

The poem can be viewed [2004] at www.poetrysociety.org.uk.