Vivien Steels lives in Nottingham and graduated from Reading University in 1974 (with a B.Ed. [Hons] in English Literature & Education). Retired from teaching/lecturing in 1987 due to the illness M.E. She writes poetry, short stories and articles, she paints in mixed media (watercolours, pen and acrylics).

She has been widely published in various small poetry presses, magazines and anthologies plus collaborations with various Internet sites (sometimes with artwork) Vivien also exhibits her visual artwork and illustrated poetry at various venues. Vivien has self-published two illustrated collections of poetry, *PROMISE* and *MANDALA*, she also designs cards/stationery/prints which can be viewed at her websites.

She has been a member of various writers' groups since 1977 and participates in poetry and writing events in Nottingham when well enough.