Fire River Poets Presents: Michelle Diaz and Wimborne Stanza
Fire River Poets are delighted to welcome acclaimed Somerset poet Michelle Diaz alongside the members of Wimborne Stanza, one of Dorset’s most vibrant and supportive poetry groups, for their June guest readings and a special evening of readings and conversation.
Michelle Diaz
Michelle Diaz lives in Somerset and has been widely published in journals and anthologies, both online and in print. Her work has appeared in respected publications including Under the Radar, Poetry Wales, and Candlestick Press. Her debut pamphlet was published by Against the Grain Press in 2019, followed by a second pamphlet from Atomic Bohemian in 2026. She is currently working on her first full-length poetry collection. Known for her thoughtful, finely crafted poems, Michelle’s work explores the complexities of contemporary life with insight, lyricism and emotional depth.
Wimborne Stanza
Founded by poet Sarah Steele in 2017 with just six members, Wimborne Stanza was established at a time when there was no other Poetry Society Stanza group in the area. Since then, the group has grown into a thriving community of eleven poets, each bringing their own distinctive voice and style to the page. Like many writing groups, Wimborne Stanza adapted creatively during the pandemic. After a brief pause, members resumed meeting outdoors in a café courtyard – a tradition that continues today, even through the winter months, with meetings only moving indoors when conditions become icy. The group meets monthly to share work, offer constructive feedback, and support one another’s writing journeys. Current members are: Maggie Alexander, Jill Barr, Sarah Barr, Christopher Beck, Robert Greenwell, Amanda Griffin, Amy Hayhurst, DG Herring, Dave Martin, Alexandra Paterson and Simon Tyndall. Poems from the Old Squash Court Café is a collection of poetry by Wimborne Stanza published December 2025 by Dithering Chaps Poetry Press.
An Evening of Poetry
This special Fire River Poets event offers a rare opportunity to hear Michelle Diaz’s accomplished solo work alongside the rich variety of voices represented by Wimborne Stanza. Together they will showcase a broad range of contemporary poetry, reflecting both individual creativity and the power of a supportive writing community.
Whether you are a dedicated poetry reader, a practising writer, or simply curious about contemporary poetry, we invite you to join us for an inspiring evening of readings, discussion and celebration of the written word.
All are welcome.