A new collection of poems by Market Drayton resident Irene Stasinski is now on sale in the town, celebrating the life and humour of a much-loved local character.

Irene moved to Market Drayton in 1981, where she developed a passion for art, particularly oil painting. Alongside her artistic work, she discovered a love of poetry and became a familiar face on local quiz teams, known for her sharp wit and warm personality.

During the Covid-19 lockdowns in 2020, Irene spent time in and out of hospital. It was there, from her hospital bed, that her poetry truly flourished. She would write several poems a day, often inspired by conversations with staff and fellow patients, and hand them out to anyone who needed a smile.

From that point on, Irene was rarely seen without pen and paper in hand. Her poems, filled with humour and humanity, quickly became a source of comfort and joy, and she took great pleasure in seeing how much they meant to others.

Paying tribute, Market Drayton Mayor Tim Manton described Irene as “a true original.”

“Irene Stasinski was a self-taught artist, quiz champion, and lover of words who spent her life observing the world with a twinkle in her eye,” he said. “Inspired by Pam Ayres, she wrote more than 600 poems filled with wit, warmth, and sharp-edged humour. Every page carries her gift for finding laughter in the everyday, proving her belief that ‘laughter is the best medicine.’ This collection is a spoonful of Irene: playful, satirical, and full of heart.”

Irene died in May this year at the age of 95.

The new book contains 50 of her poems, selected by members of the Market Drayton community, ensuring her voice and humour continue to be shared. The collection is available locally for £5 per copy from Glyn’s Framing on Stafford Street and from Creative Drayton in the Indoor Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It is also available as a paperback on Amazon priced at £7.99.