I am a born and bred Bathonian having lived in the city all my life.
Both myself and my son attended schools in the Lambridge Ward. I studied his A Levels at Bath College and later returned to study City and Guilds in hospitality and catering. He then worked at many bars, restaurants and hotels in the city.
In 1987 I changed direction and started working for Royal Mail in Manvers Street. I worked for them for over 33 years at various locations in Bath and Bristol in a number of managerial roles. During my employment I studied for many professional qualifications including a diploma in transport becoming a Member of the Institute of Logistics and Transport. I later studied for a Health and Safety Diploma with the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.
I joined the Territorial Army, Royal Engineers in 1987 stationed initially at Mill Hill in London, then from 1993 at the Royal Logistics Corp in Grantham where my main duties were that of Squadron Quartermaster as well as being a regimental instructor.
I was mobilised in 2003 for the Second Gulf War as a Defence Courier escorting classified material all over the world including Iraq and Afghanistan.
I retired as a Warrant Officer in 2014 after 27 years of continuous service.
I still live on the London Road in the house that I was born in. I volunteer for the Friends of Kensington Meadows helping to maintain and improve this vital community asset. I have maintained my links with the military and regularly organises reunions and events for retired and serving members of the forces.