I was born into a Derbyshire mining family, and might have followed my father and brothers into the mines. Fortunately, I had the good fortune to have parents who recognised my passion for art and encouraged me to take a place at Chesterfield Art College. There I studied fine art for three years and a further two years was spent in Norfolk studying graphic design.

Eight years in a small design agency provided a solid grounding in a wide range of commercial design and illustration techniques, and following a period in freelance work, I set up a thriving design business partnership based in Nottingham. Since then I have managed to dedicate an increasing amount of my time on illustration work and influenced by my young family, I have been lucky enough to earn a reputation as a children's book illustrator working with some of some of Europe's best known publishing houses. But when not I'm drawing big red shiny trucks I devote many hours to my personal portfolio and this site gives you an insight into some of that work.

My drawing technique is very traditional starting with pen, paper and brushes but uniquely I also combine the use of computers for subsequent stages and this sets my work apart from many other styles. A free-hand sketch always forms the basic structure of my pictures on to which I apply colour; adjusting, changing and improving as the work develops. Subsequent stages are done on the computer, although occasionally I begin with a graphic tablet linked to a computer. There is no artistic mess with paint tubes and brushes in the studio but as the finished product is printed on canvas, the same understanding of the application and texture of pigments, whether oil, watercolour or pastel is applied throughout my work. As a left hander, I draw on the graphic tablet with my left hand; but my computer mouse is set up for the right-hand, so I can work with both hands at once!

I draw influences from my children, my mining family background, my English heritage and a HUGE pinch of fun and humour. My pictures are reminiscent of historical events that have affected our lives, yet they also portray self-effacing, real life, warm images that make us laugh. This humour and warmth has undoubtedly contributed to the wide appeal that my pictures enjoy from a diverse range of buyers.