Born in Carlisle, I took an interest in becoming a veterinary surgeon at an early age and was educated at The Royal Dick Veterinary College, University of Edinburgh.

After graduating I worked for a short while in Scotland and then moved to Coleraine, initially for 3 months. I have now practiced in the Coleraine area for more than 25 years

I have been closely involved with Animal Welfare and was Veterinary Advisor to the USPCA for several years. I currently sit on the Council of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, the Regulatory Body for the Veterinary Profession and became Chairman of the Committee which considers all complaints against Veterinary Surgeons.

I am a member of the Kirk Session of Bushmills Presbyterian Church and closely involved in the renovation of the church buildings, and also a member of the Church Choir.

I married local girl, Olive, and became a father of one son. After a short illness Olive died at the age of 47 in November 2007. My son has just started secondary education and being a single parent is a significant but very rewarding challenge.

My interests include music, especially singing, golf, cooking, reading and travelling.