Manning's Pit may sound like a coal mine but it is in fact a magical piece of  countryside on the edge of Pilton, Barnstaple.  Rich in wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, salmon and horseshoe bats,  it may only be a small area of land but it is at the heart of the local community - loved by young and old alike.  

Manning's Pit also has connections to writers such as Saki (H H Munro) and Henry Williamson. It is a place where generations of Pilton people have walked, picnicked,  picked blackberries, sledged in winter, or simply enjoyed the peace that is so hard to find these days.  

Manning's Pit is now under threat of development. To help save it The Friends of Manning Pit are running a poetry competition  The theme can be Manning's Pit itself or any piece of countryside  near to a town or village that is loved and treasured both by local people and visitors from afar.