Geoff Stevens, poet and editor of the small press poetry magazine Purple Patch for the last 35 years, has died in a hospice in Birmingham after a short illness.

His partner, Geraldine Wall, said he died peacefully in the early hours of Thursday morning, 2 February. She added: “It has been a shocking and very sad time for all of us.” In a message to subscribers, breaking the news of Geoff’s illness, she added: “Purple Patch was Geoff’s pride and joy. I want to thank you from him for your support, and, in many cases, contributions.”

Purple Patch, which has been dubbed by the Guardian “a national treasure”, was in its early days duplicated in purple ink.

A poetry convention that Geoff had been organising to take place later this year will now become a celebration of his life. No funeral arrangements have been made yet, but those wishing to attend should check for details on Geoff’s official website.