I have been fortunate to have two distinct careers that have equipped me with a wide range of skills.

My first career was in the advertising industry where I developed my writing skills in particular. I rose to become an Account Director and work with many wonderful clients.

It was also a really young, fun industry to be part of!

In the late 1990’s I took a complete change by purchasing the West Midlands franchise of Spice – a large adventure, social and activity group for adults.

My group became the biggest of all the Spice groups with around 3,500 keen members at its height.

I learned to run a small business, create unusual events, lead overseas holidays, publish a monthly members magazine and be “Mr Fun” to a wide range of wonderful people.

I ran this group for over 20 years, and this was a huge time of change with the Internet, eCommerce and social media proving to be real ‘game changers’.

Since selling Spice West Midlands in 2018 I have decided to concentrate on areas of work that are most fulfilling to me.

I have become a qualified walk leader and offer a range of guided walks. I also offer tour managing/ guiding in the UK and in particular European Cities such as Istanbul, Florence and Venice.

I have also qualified as a Funeral Celebrant and find great satisfaction in raising the standard of funeral services. It is a huge privilege to work with families to discover the unique character in every human life and produce funeral services that are beautiful, poignant and deeply personal.

I am also lucky to have the time to volunteer with a number of charitable organisations.

Through Sutton Coldfield Baptist Church I am a facilitator with Divorce Recovery Workshop and also work with vulnerable adults. I also work regular shifts with The Food Bank.

I am also on the board of Advance Credit Union and work closely with a small charity called Manacare in its work serving children and families in Sri Lanka.

On the domestic front, I am married to Kate and have 4 wonderful children, 2 lovely grand daughters and two very grumpy dogs! I love travel, the outdoors, skiing, scuba diving and cycling.