After being born in Airedale General Hospital on 9th May 1978, I was brought home to Old Hall Way, Glusburn, where, apart from 3 years spent at Newcastle University, I have lived all my life. My Father comes from an old Dales farming family and was brought up in Skipton, my Mother comes from Yeadon near Leeds and her family is of Irish descent. When I was born, I was the subject of a 'Guess the Weight of the Baby' competition, to raise money for the village playgroup at Glusburn Institute.
Of my early years, I can remember very little, up to going to Mothers & Toddlers and later Playgroup at the Institute. A highlight of the week was staying for lunch on Fridays and having fish & chips. I am still very good friends with some of those I first met at the Institute at this time.