I originate from the East End of London and spent my early years there before heading North to attend college. That was almost 50 years ago and it has been the incredible people, lifestyle and beauty of Yorkshire that has kept me here ever since.
Perhaps it was that personal ‘discovery’ of this part of the world and its community that has made me value it so highly. Although I originally trained as a teacher and youth worker and spent a short time working in that sector, my career has primarily been in professional social work where I was both a practitioner and manager. Later on, I established and ran a successful business based in Honley, providing independent social work, consultancy and training services.
Janet and I live at Choppards, Holmfirth. Between us we have two grown up daughters and two grown up sons, each with families of their own and all living locally. So quite a number of grandchildren!
Since retiring, I have expanded my hobbies and interests which include foreign travel, walking, gym, woodturning, badminton and Ceroc Jive dancing. I have always been active in local community organisations and interested in politics. Perhaps inspired by my grandfather who spoke to public meetings against fascism in the 1930s and took part in the Battle of Cable Street. So, apart from retirement allowing me more time for volunteering with local groups and taking up a role in helping to promote tourism in the Holme Valley, I have been able to turn my energies to community politics.
Election to the Parish Council is a great honour for me and provides me with a fantastic opportunity to engage with and share with the local community on projects that benefit everyone.