After 22 years working in industry for a financial services business I felt it was time for a change and I decided to take something of a career break.

Plans of travel were put on hold due to Covid so I started volunteering with Outside Lives, helping with the business finances.

Roll forwards 8-months and I now sit on the Board and look after the Finance and Treasury functions, I also assist with fundraising activities and help in other areas as and when required. I am ACCA qualified and have a passion for wildlife and the great outdoors.

WHERE'S HOME?

For the last 20 years Cuddington, near Northwich, has been my home.  I live here with my wife Lesley and our cocker spaniel, Flossy.

WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?

I love to get out walking and exploring the countryside.  We're fortunate to have lots of tracks and trails where we can venture out near to home, but I’m probably at my happiest near the sea walking along stretches of the Anglesey or Pembrokeshire coast paths.

WHAT DO YOU GROW?

Over the last 10-years or so we’ve tried our hand at growing a lot of different fruit and veg in the garden. We’ve had a bit of success with tomatoes, carrots and beetroot and more recently with our blueberry plants and raspberry canes, although most of these are eaten by Floss who regularly heads into the garden to 'pick her own'.

WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO?

I’m usually listening to the radio or my playlist on Spotify, but artists I’ve been listening to a bit recently are Father John Misty, Fleet Foxes and Pulp. I’ve also found myself listening to more podcasts, some of those I’ve enjoyed have been 'Grounded' with Louis Theroux, 'Off Menu' with Ed Gamble and James Acaster, and 'One of the Family' with Nicky Campbell.

WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE SEASON?

I think I would have to say it’s a tie between Spring and Autumn, I love them equally and the transitions they both bring. Spring because of the warming up of the days, the drawing out of the nights and the abundance of wildlife and Autumn for the food, the hazy sunshine and the beautiful colours.