Mansfield writer launches debut poetry book at 'inspiring' café in town

Emily Vanseizenberg, aged 21, is a regular at Mansfield’s Toffee Hut on Regent Street.

Emily – who has been writing most of her life and rediscovered poetry after joining a creative writing group in college – launched her debut poetry book 'Ever Changing' at the venue.

The 21-year-old performed at the closing event of Nottingham Poetry Festival hosted by the Toffee Hut back in May.

Emily’s closing poem ‘Welcome to Toffee Hut’ was engraved on a culinary board and gifted to the café.

The poem is displayed on the wall.

Emily said: “The inspiration for that poem came from wanting to pay tribute to the Toffee Hut team for their support.

“This place is a huge inspiration for me.

“I have been coming here since it opened and it has been a safe space for my writing.“It is so great to be launching my book here as it has been a second home for me.“I did not expect the turn out that I have had.“I have met a lot of people and sold some copies.“The first hour was busy and people were asking questions about the book.“It has been great.

“My first book is about growing up and the experiences that come with that.

“I am just so pleased that I have been able to launch and share it.

“I am still finding my voice and I feel very excited to see where this goes.”

Rachel Richards, owner of the Toffee Hut, said: “It is heartwarming and overwhelming at times, with how positive these creative events have been received by the community.

“Emily has been a huge supporter of ours since we opened our doors.

“When I first met her, she seemed a little lost but she has really grown in confidence and is now finding her feet.

“We had discussions about her poetry – and that is how we decided to put on the Meeting of Minds evenings, for writers in the area to connect and network.

“I get emotional when I think about Emily’s poem about the Toffee Hut.

“It is very special.

“It is great to support her launch here.“I am just so proud.”