My main passion is birding! I’ve been watching birds for over 50 years since my uncle, who was a local RSPB leader, would take me along on trips when I was only 8! Over the years I have been fortunate to travel extensively to all seven continents ( including 87 countries) and develop my interest in bird migration and other wildlife - including mammals, snakes and more recently butterflies and moths.
I am a keen photographer and over the past 10 years have organised birdwatching holidays for small groups of friends to a number of exciting destinations including Borneo, Japan, Columbia, Georgia, Morocco, Spain and Madeira.
After working for two well know Insurance Companies I began my own business when I was age 25. My career involved financial management for Businesses, Individuals and Trusts. My work allowed me to travel and work in South Africa and Europe and I worked with several Newspapers, Radio 4 Money Box, and Breakfast TV on a few occasions.
I have always lived in Kent, growing up near Maidstone, then living and working in West Kent, before moving to the wonderful seaside town of Walmer in 2010. I’ve been a member of SBBO for nearly 40 years and contribute to the bird sightings in the recording area. I’ve seen lots of great birds here and also found a few unusual species for the Bay including two Alpine Swifts and two Red-backed Shrikes!
I am currently also a Trustee for a Charitable Trust that funds research projects into Epilepsy in children and young adults. I am also involved with the Board of a UK PLC which I enjoy. Having sold my last business in 2021, I will cease a part-time consultancy role very soon, which will give me some free time which I hope can be used for something worthwhile (other than grandparent duties!).
I have always wanted to become more involved with the Observatory and following my retirement, I hope that I will be able to make a positive and valuable contribution to the work of the Trust.