Amusing anecdotes and funny observations abound in the first collection of poems to be published by Lesley Rowe.

Butterflies and Wishes features poems which cover a wide range of topics inspired by happy and sad experiences.

"It is a very eclectic mix. I tried to group things together so it makes sense," said Mrs Rowe. "There is a silly one about a chocolate bar which comes from a day when I was trying to resist one. Some people have said it has another meaning, but as far as I am concerned it is about chocolate."

The inspiration is not cheery for all of the poems Mrs Rowe has written, but she says putting pen to paper can help sort out the difficulties of life.

A stay in hospital provoked her to dedicate one of the book's chapters to being ill - other topics include food, love and rain.

She explained: "Life can get a bit iffy sometimes and if you are feeling very cross or happy or any extreme of emotion it's really good to write it down.

"Usually the first thing you write is the gist, but then I look for a better way of expressing it."

Originally from Brighton Mrs Rowe, who works for graphic design agency Blue Pole, is currently doing an advanced creative writing course.
The former nurse has also achieved a distinction in an Open University creative writing course and is a keen painter.

Mrs Rowe, who lives on Middle Street South with her husband, Paul, said the northern way of life has provided a lot of inspiration for her work.
"You can't go outside without something funny happening and people here are so nice," she said. "People are so open and the northern way of life amuses me so much."

She is currently working on a novel.

Butterflies and Wishes is being stocked in Sokells on Middle Street South, Driffield.