Clare McPhee obituary

My sister, Clare McPhee, who has died aged 66 of cancer, was a gifted poet and writer. She published seven collections of poems, focusing on the natural world and objects of importance to her. She also taught creative writing, helping people to access their own imagination and participate in literature.

Born in Dartford, Kent, Clare was the daughter of Bill Crossman, a hotelier, and his wife, Charmian (nee Hanson), who became a vicar. When Clare was 14 the family moved to Cumbria.