Earning a diploma with the Open University enabled me to study Modern History at Oxford Brookes University. I became a Student Leader and then enjoyed a fulfilling career in Local Government across Oxfordshire and in Birmingham, working in Equalities and Housing, until my retirement in 2012.
I have always loved stories. At 14, I was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia, a progressive and incurable neurological condition. Devastated, I dropped out of school and began my exceptional journey.
Searching for new meaning in life, I returned to study creative writing with the Open University and have an impressive collection of short stories and posts on my award-winning blog. I began a long and influential association with Ataxia UK, serving as a Trustee for 8 years. I became an Ataxia Ambassador in 2018. I have undertaken a wide variety of volunteering roles across Oxfordshire. I have also helped setup and run several charities.
I was awarded an MBE for services to Disability and to my Community in the New Year’s Honours list 2021.
I live in Oxfordshire with my current wife, Helen, our two children, Bella and Billy, and our Airdoodle, Treacle
Disability is Other People: My Superhero Story 