Each week we will publish a short poem, written by some of our Manx Bards and other local poets.

These poems are short, fun or thoughtful little pieces, written to last around 20 seconds and can be recited during the time it takes to wash your hands.

This week’s poem, entitled ‘Stay Safe’, has been submitted by Manx Independent reader John Melvin.

We will publish more of readers’ poems over the next few weeks, along with a selection of poems written by the Manx Bards.

We will publish a poem, written by the current Bard, Zoe Cannell, next week.

We will print one short poem a week in the pages of Island Life.

Why not try writing your own 20-second poem?

Send your own poems to [email protected]

Stay Safe

Covid 19 is affecting our lives.

It’s causing much hardship,

these are troublesome times

If you follow these rules

it will be a good start

Keep your distance, stay two metres apart

Wash your hands

and keep them clean

Use plenty of soap don’t be mean

Close your doors

and try to stay in

If you sneeze on a tissue put it in the bin

These rules are simple,

and so easy to share

Try to stay safe and always take care.

Written by John Melvin