I was born in Batley, Yorkshire, in 1966. I grew up in Yorkshire and in Malawi, Central Africa.

I studied law at Huddersfield Polytechnic, and then did my Solicitors Final Exams at the College of Law in London. I later completed a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice Studies at Leicester University in 1998.

I worked for a number of years as a solicitor, firstly for the civil service and then for 14 years in private practice, becoming an Associate Partner for the regions leading law firm. However in 2007 I took up a new post as Course Director for one of the worlds largest professional training companies, and now spend my time providing training in law and management.

I was first elected to Broxtowe Council in 1999 to represent the Stapleford North ward. Following boundary changes in 2003 I was re-elected for the Bramcote Ward, and became the chair of the Development Control committee. I was then re-elected in 2007 for Bramcote.

Away from work I am a keen musician, playing the guitar and piano. I am a fan of most sports, especially football and motor racing, and during 2003 I qualified for my scuba divers licence. My favourite sorts of music are Mods, Northern Soul and light rock, and my favourite current artists are Kelly Clarkson, The Corrs, Avril Lavigne, Oasis, Paul Weller and Pink.

I am a Methodist Local preacher and am the leader of the Youth fellowship at Grangewood Methodist Church.

I am married to Gill, and we live with our cat, Barney, in Bramcote.