Cherry Orchard Publishing Commissions Poem For The Industry

Yesterday (April 1) marked the 25^th anniversary of Cherry Orchard Publishing. Ordinarily, the Gloucestershire-based card publisher, owned and headed up by Jackie Collins would be celebrating the milestone with a lively event for its staff and promotions galore for retailers, but that was before the far-reaching effects of the Covid-19 crisis took hold.

Instead, compelled to show compassion, solidarity and support for the company’s retail stockists who have been forced to close their doors as well as her fellow members of the greeting card community feeling pain and worry, Jackie has commissioned famous author Patricia Rose to write a dedicated poem that would bring hope during these challenging times.

Above: It was 25 years yesterday (April 1) that Cherry Orchard Publishing was started.

Above: The specially written poem by Patricia Rose for Cherry Orchard. — **Above:** The specially written poem by Patricia Rose for Cherry Orchard.

This poem is to appear on the front cover of the April edition of Progressive Greetings (which is currently being printed).

Paying tribute to Patricia, whom Jackie has known and worked with for several years (and is underway with plans for a new card range bearing her words), she said “I was delighted that Patricia agreed to write the poem as I was never in any doubt that she would strike the right tone – and indeed she has.”

Patricia, now 79 years old, said she felt honoured to be asked to undertake the task. “Being able to touch someone and make them feel better through the words and phrases I have put together, makes me feel better. It is such a privilege to be able to do that,” shares Patricia.

While not quite the riotous day of celebration Jackie had initially envisaged for the company’s 25^th birthday she said that it was lovely spend some time reflecting on the company’s journey

“We have seen so many changes over those years, have had the support of so many great retailers, worked with a host of talented artists and writers, been well blessed by having a wonderful team of people at Cherry Orchard and I do feel so proud to have developed so many fabulous ranges. There will hopefully be plenty of time for celebrations when we all come out the other side of this. Stay safe” she added.