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I was born, raised and have lived in Northwich for all of my life - in fact, living in the same house. I was educated locally in Lostock and Rudheath and studied at Mid Cheshire College of Further Education.

I started work in 1959 in the local chemical industry, serving there for 35 years in all. I started as an apprentice electrician and progressed to an external development manager before retiring. My two main hobbies in retirement are pigeon racing and golf.

I have always been involved in local politics, through union related work issues including management joint consultation (looking at pay and conditions) before moving into local politics with both Northwich Town Council and Cheshire County Council. I was the Town Mayor of Northwich in 1999/2000.

I am currently involved in a number of bodies for the County Council as well as being the deputy whip for the County Labour Group. I am a governor at Sir John Deanes and Mid Cheshire Colleges and through my deputy whip role help to appoint Governors to other schools.

My involvements with both Cheshire County Council and Northwich Town Council are as follows:

• Spokesman on the County Environment Scrutiny Select Committee
• Chairman of the County Business Services Board
• Organisation Committee which relates to my Deputy Whip role
• Member of the Cheshire Fire Authority (temporary)
• Member of the Local Joint Highways Committee
• Vice Chairman of the County Locality Board
• Member of the Vision for Northwich Steering Group (this oversees future developments in Northwich)
• Member of the Rural Panel (looking at investment in rural areas)
• Executive Member of the Council for Voluntary Services and Volunteer Bureau (formally the CVS)

I have seen Northwich grow and develop over the years. Improved retail, housing and industry have all played a major role in the town’s development. The environment and planning have been and remain a major challenge, both now and the future. It is imperative that we take steps to protect the environment through planning. Environmental issues need careful thought and action as today’s actions will create the legacy for following generations.