I was born in Leeds in 1959. I studied art to A level always preferring oil paints. Due to family and job commitments I was unable to paint very much for the next 20 years.
    In 2002 I was made redundant and decided to take up my painting again.
    I now live in West Rainton and when the village started an annual show including paintings I entered every year, winning most painting classes. In 2011 they awarded The Arden House Award for best item in the show, I went on to win this 4 out of the following 5 years.
     This success spurred me on to do more painting and joined Hetton Art Club where I am now secretary. I also joined Houghton and Lumley Art Clubs.
     In 2014 I won The Anthony Lynn Award at Houghton Art Club for my painting of The Nigel Gresely.