Hello
If you're even vaguely interested, here are some bits of information about me, where I'm from, what I like to do and why I have found myself as a councillor with hardly any time to do anything like putting my feet up!
A bit about me
I was born and raised in Lancaster and attended Lancaster Royal Grammar School where I did okay but circumstances meant I didn't go to university at the time. Instead I embarked upon the world of work after leaving home at 17. Throughout my career, I've embraced various diverse roles, including mayonnaise maker, gift shop manager, fraud investigator for the Inland Revenue, musician, and 15 years as an insurance broker. Currently, I work as a Project Manager for Charge My Street, a community-focused enterprise dedicated to installing and operating electric vehicle (EV) charging points, particularly for those without off-street parking. Our mission is to ensure that every home is within a five-minute walk of an EV charge point, promoting accessible and sustainable transportation options.
I moved to Kendal in 2009 and have not regretted that decision for a moment. I've a keen interest in genealogy and with my ancestors having lived and worked as farmers, miners and slate splitters in Cumbria (Westmorland, Cumberland, Lancashire depending on the year) for centuries I feel well at home.
Family is central to my life. My son was born prematurely at 25 weeks, and the exceptional care he received from the NHS during his early days has left an indelible mark on me. This experience has fueled my unwavering support for the NHS, and I remain committed to advocating for its vital role in our community.
Music has been a passion since my teenage years. I play guitar, ukulele and keyboards, starting with live performances in bands from the age of 17. Over the years, I've been in many bands (varying degrees of quality) and recorded numerous tracks, with several pieces featured on two Canadian television series and also in a short film by Will Self. Today, I enjoy making music with my son and occasionally sing with a local group that celebrates traditional English songs. I think I may now be "too old to rock n roll".
Some of my old music is here if you'd like a listen - The High Planets
And here's something more recent in which I have crooned a few notes - The Kendal Revellers
My involvement in local politics stems from a long-standing commitment to social and environmental issues. In my youth, I actively participated in campaigns with the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND), anti-fascist groups, and environmental advocacy. This interest in politics led me to apply for a position with Tim Farron's office, which, though unsuccessful, inspired me to stand for council. Since 2022, I've had the privilege of serving as Chair of the Communities and Environment Scrutiny Committee for Westmorland and Furness Council, where I oversee initiatives aimed at addressing the climate emergency and enhancing biodiversity. I also get to handover oversized cheques to local community groups which is tremendously exciting.
Beyond my professional and political endeavours, I have a range of personal interests. I hold a distinction in Creative Writing from the Open University and I am an active member of local groups such as Friends of Fletcher Park, where we focus on planting native trees and plants. A couple of years ago, I was honoured to be nominated as a Cumbria Wildlife Trust Nature Hero for my contributions to local environmental efforts. I also enjoy running, particularly on Kendal's Scout Scar, and have participated in fundraising running and cycling activities for causes like the North West Air Ambulance and Bliss. I love natural history in general, especially birdwatching and more recently moth trapping.
Through these varied experiences, I remain dedicated to fostering a sustainable, vibrant, and connected community in Kendal and beyond.
Brief council history -
I was elected in 2018 to both Kendal Town Council (KTC) and South Lakeland District Council (SLDC). Initially, I served as the Vice Chair of the Environment Committee on KTC before becoming Chair in 2021. During my time at SLDC, I sat on various committees, including Audit, Lake Administration, and Overview and Scrutiny. Later, I became a Cabinet Member with responsibility for Customer and Locality Services, covering areas such as waste management and car parks.
In 2022, I was elected to the shadow Westmorland and Furness Council ahead of the local government reorganisation. I officially assumed my role on April 1st, 2023. Currently, I chair the Communities and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee, which also grants me a seat on the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
Additionally, I chair a working group of the South Lakeland Locality Board, which focuses on climate and biodiversity. This group aims to support and fund local organizations working within these crucial areas, ensuring sustainable development and environmental stewardship within the community.
More details of these roles can be found here
Through these roles, I have been privileged to serve my community, advocate for sustainable policies, and work towards a better future for Kendal and South Lakeland.
