Born in 1952, grew up in Loughborough - living on Union Street until the age of 15 and educated at St Peters (tin hut!) school on Storer road. From there went on to Roseberry street infants and junior school, where I joined St Peters choir. I left Garendon High at the age of 15 with no qualifications in order to work to support my mother and younger brother and sister.
Started work at Len Jacksons coach works as an apprentice coach builder and sprayer where I developed my passion for cars.
Without doubt I owe a great deal to Len Jackson - he taught me how to conduct myself at a certain level in society. He gave me the benchmark to aspire to, and the confidence that people rarely get at that age. It was Len that taught me standards and respect. He was the first positive male role model in my life and believed in me when school and others around me didn't.
From there joined Stuart Westmorelands as deputy manager, where a passion for technology started. I was there at the birth of Video, CD, and DVD to name a few. Succesfully went on to manage the branch and then on to the East Midlands Electricity Board shop in town. I was ultimately employed as trouble shooter for the E.M.E.B. Whilst at Westmorelands I set up and owned a shop in Market st called Cest La Vie. At this time was also a director of Diana Clayfield Knitwear.
From 1974 onwards I started working heavily for charities on fashion shows, modelling and as compere.
I worked with the Y.W.C.A in Great Central road running the youth club there until the eighties.
I have been instrumental in raising funds for Loros, Rainbows and other charities. Mainly as compere for events such as Galas, fashion shows, musicals, cabarets and still doing it!
After leaving the Electricity board I was employed as sales executive for Falcon Mercedes Benz, and then on to Powerhouse retail where I launched and managed their flagship store in Nottingham.
It was at this point that I started my career with Charnwood Borough Council, having 5 contracts with them. Working in the Museum, Cafe, Main office as commisioner, Legal and democratic services - incorporating the Service shop, and number 4 driver for the mayoralty car. I have seen first hand how the council works and have been frontline to the public comments and grievances.
For the past 6 years I have ran the Holywell guest house with my partner of 17 years Derek Hunter.
Since February of 2005 I have been the managing director of Seel Manufacturing Ltd. I was a founder member of the Loughborough Beacon Rotary club and have been involved with them for over 21 years. I am deputy chair for fundraising this year.
I have been involved with the Charnwood Tourist Association and in the seventies was in the Charnwood chamber of trade representing Stuart Westmorelands.
Lingcroft House, my birth home
