I’ve been writing since the age of four: stories, poems, plays and books. I used to write ‘love at first sight’ stories for school friends, based on their latest crush, and sell them for 10p each. My writing however was generally private and I guarded it fiercely.

When I was looking for a piece for my grandpa’s funeral, I could not find words which spoke for me, so I decided to write them myself. Reading out the poem created just for him was the best tribute I could pay. The congregation felt connected to the piece, shared the memories and joined the declaration of love which can only come from “heaving your heart into your mouth”.

A friend then asked me to do a reading for her wedding “but I would really like something you’ve written yourself” which was the first time I'd considered other people might like my writing outside my middle school LAFS fans.*

An online friend asked me to write a poem for her daughter to read at her father’s funeral. I worked with the family, using photos and encouraging recollections, to create a tribute the little girl felt comfortable delivering - one which came from her.

I am an inveterate letter-writer - an enthusiastic hurler of both brickbats and bouquets - and have helped friends (and strangers!) with formal correspondence, particularly when important issues need addressing. I can also help with a personal letter, though I will draw the line at Dear Johns**.

I’m able to turn my pen to most things, so please get in touch if you would like something I haven’t come up with.