"I have been a Danesmoor resident since 1971, with my late wife Barbara and our two children who are now living their own lives with families in Scotland and Clay Cross.

I studied at both Chesterfield and Sheffield College of Art and University, supported by my then employer, The Derbyshire Times. I then worked at various newspaper and print companies including Ashton Containers (DS Smith), until I joined North East Derbyshire District Council in 1991as their Print and Design Manager, retiring in 2009.

At weekends I used to split my time working out of the Clay Cross base as a Countryside Ranger with Derbyshire County Council, and assisting with the running of Hepthorne Lane Football Club during the local football season, as well as being their Treasurer.

I was elected as a Parish Councillor over 30 years ago and have also held the posts of School Governor, District Councillor for Clay Cross South and the first Group Leader of the Chesterfield RSPB Members Group.

I am currently the appointed Tree Warden for Clay Cross and a Footpath Officer whilst operating my own company dealing with wildlife and habitat conservation consultancy.

Many people, especially in North East Derbyshire have been let down by governments that seek to focus only on the rich, the banks and the 'haves' in our society and that is something I cannot accept. Clay Cross is changing and I want to be there and have your backing ready to influence decisions, listen to your views and help create a Clay Cross that will be admired with jobs, quality affordable housing, green space, a vibrant town centre and a great place to bring up a family."