There’s extra sparkle in the air this Christmas for local children’s poet Attie Lime. Known across the area for her joyful wordplay and boundless enthusiasm, Attie is celebrating the release of her brand-new poetry collection, A Welly Full of Christmas. The book is published by independent Stockport-based publisher Tiny Tree Books, and officially launches on 30 October 2025.
Attie is no stranger to writing. Her passion for poetry began in childhood and never left her side. After completing a degree in Experience of Writing at the University of Derby, she went on to take an MA in Creative Writing, followed by a PGCE in Primary Education. Over the years she has worked as both a primary and preschool teacher, all while raising her three sons. In 2021, she took the leap into full-time writing and hasn’t looked back since.
In addition to her work as an author, Attie is one of the co-creators of the Swadlincote Festival of Words, a community celebration of books, storytelling and creativity. Now entering its third year, the 2026 festival promises another packed programme, bringing writers, illustrators and poets into Swadlincote’s town centre and local schools for four lively days of literary fun. Attie and her fellow organiser Ingrid van der Weide are already hard at work, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers.
Back in 2023, Attie also founded Swad Scribes, a local writing group that quickly grew in popularity. What started as a monthly gathering became a twice-monthly hub of creativity, with a blend of new and established writers. One of the group’s earliest members, Debbie Violet, now leads the group as it moves into a new venue this autumn. Debbie also runs Scribes Aloud, a spoken word evening held once a month at Pegg’s Bar in Swadlincote. It’s a relaxed and supportive event where both seasoned performers and nervous newcomers are welcome to share their words aloud.
The reach of Swad Scribes has even extended onto the airwaves. Several members have had their work featured on BBC Upload, including Attie herself. There’s also a brand-new project on the horizon, with Debbie and fellow writer Tim Wagg launching the Scribes Sounds show on Burton Radio very soon.
Attie’s new collection, A Welly Full of Christmas, brings together her trademark wit and warmth, capturing the magic and mayhem of the festive season through poetry. The book is made even more special by its illustrations, which come from Attie’s long-time friend and former colleague, Nadine Licence. The two met over 20 years ago while working in a City of London library, and their shared love of storytelling has found a new home in this joyful collaboration.
Libraries continue to play a big part in Attie’s work. This summer she led a poetry and craft session at Burton Library as part of the Story Garden Reading Challenge. The event was a huge hit with families, and the magic beanstalk craft was so popular that extra tables had to be brought in. The official launch of A Welly Full of Christmas will take place at Swadlincote Library, where Attie has previously performed poems from her first book, Blue Jelly and Strawberries, published by Otter-Barry Books.
Attie regularly visits schools and festivals around the country, sharing her love of poetry and helping children discover the joy of words. With her parrot puppet Marjorie by her side, she brings poetry to life in the most delightful way. As the festive season approaches, Attie is especially excited to visit schools with her new Christmas collection in hand. There are even rumours that Marjorie might have a brand-new festive outfit to mark the occasion.
You can find out more about Attie and her books at www.attielime.co.uk
