I am a poet and short story writer. Closet Collection was my debut short story collection, back in 1994. Since then my work has appeared in anthologies, magazines, pamphlets, websites, dance videos, brochures, and multimedia exhibits around the UK. Publications include The Rialto, Agenda, British Council's New Writing14, Smith's Knoll, Magma, Orbis, The Slab, Tadeeb ...You can read more about me at Echo Soundings
The poems in the blogs are are from Harrogate Bedrock - "a stunning collection of poems based on a century of a Harrogate haulage business. Her language is bold, lively and richly textured and her characters' voices are powerfully brought to life so that their passions, ambitions and disappointments are vividly heard and imagined." Bernardine Evaristo.
Collaborations: For five years I collaborated with two other writers. As 3dV, we performed live literature poetry-tellings around the North West. I was the poet in residence for Calderdale Libraries between 2003-2005, where I worked closely with library staff, a photographer and painter to promote the benefits of reading. Now I am collaborating with the musician, Steve Lewis. Together we create sonic art for performance, see the deep carbaret website
I write for other performers, including most recently the libretto for an improvised opera, Flocking, that was performed at Lancaster Jazz Festival in September 07. And have provided lyrics for the Afrofunk band DC Dansette.
Just this past year I have rediscovered a love for puppets and script and perform puppet shows for children's birthday parties and at any other occasion that'll indulge me. These are retellings of the classic fairy tales. Classics for a reason.
I am currently the Publishing Development Manager for litfest, editing Flax Books and organising professional development sessions for writers throughout the North West, both on a one-to-one basis and for groups.
I also facilitate writing workshops, and have, over ten years, worked with undergraduates, children and adults in prisons, community settings, the mental health sector, libraries and primary schools, devising, coordinating and delivering workshops. I've edited and co-designed many of the resulting anthologies of work.
