Born and raised in County Durham, I qualified as a teacher in Manchester in 1971. I taught Geography in two Secondary Schools in Salford, before changing to Special Needs. I achieved a B.Ed and an Advanced Diploma in Special Educational Needs. I taught various ages in SEN for 23 years, in Salford and Wigan.
In 1978, I became the Publicity Officer for the Liverpool Road Station Society (oldest existing passenger station, in the world); Spending a lot of time persuading politicians and the public to save the Station. I organised two cavalcades of vintage vehicles and steam engines, through Market Street and Deansgate (1979 & 80). Fred Dibnah took part in both events, culminating in the Great Railway Exposition in September 1980.
I spent 12 months on the Museum of Science and Industry Advisory Panel, suggesting that a much larger premises was needed, for their exhibits. I was present when the Queen opened the completed MOSI, with the Station as the Centre piece. In 1983, I qualified as a private pilot and went solo, in a glider.
Married to Bernadette, we have three adult children. We have lived in Ansdell for 25 years.
I began Ansdell in Bloom in 2006, serving as Coordinator for 9 years. In 2007, I was elected to serve as a Councillor for Ansdell. I served on Planning for 8 years, 2 as Vice Chairman and 4 as Chairman. I was then transferred to Environment, Health and Housing, serving as Chairman for 5 years.
My goal at present is to help raise funds, in order to renovate Ansdell Institute for future generations.
My hobbies are gardening, reading, playing Crown Green Bowls for Lowther Gardens Team and playing Bridge. I am also a regular attender at Fylde Rugby Union.
I am a member of St. Joseph’s Church.