Staffordshire Day: a Celebration in Poetry

This Staffordshire Day we will be celebrating in poetry! Join four Staffordshire-based poets to discuss and hear the poetry inspired by our county.

At the event, we will hear from:

Tom Allsopp, a poet from Hednesford, Staffordshire. Tom is a poet and playwright who has had work staged in theatres across the country. He has had two pieces included in 'In The Sticks'. One of Offa’s ‘New Voices’.

Cherry Doyle, a poet who lives on Cannock Chase. Her work has appeared in top magazines and numerous anthologies including In the Sticks which she co-edited for Offa's Press. Her pamphlet, September, and The Taste of Rain celebrate Cannock Chase and its many wonders.

Simon Fletcher, a poet from the Wyre Forest who now lives in Shropshire. The manager of Offa's Press, he has performed his poetry across Britain and in Norway and Pakistan. In 2022 he was commended in the Michael Marks Environmental Poet of the Year Award. Nominated for the Forward Prize (best single poem category), 2024.

Kuli Kohli, the poet laureate of Wolverhampton. She has battled with mild cerebral palsy and achieved a great deal in her life as council worker, mother and writer. Her appearances on BBC’s ‘Sunday Live’ and ‘Poetry, Please!’ drew national attention. Her Patchwork and A Wonder Woman are both published by Offa’s Press. This March a photograph of her was acquired by the National Portrait Gallery.

Books available to bought and signed at the end of the event. Coffee and cake will be available from the cafe throughout the evening.