I have lived in the Borough of Great Yarmouth for all of my life. I was a pupil at Flegg High School and have studied at both of our local colleges; I graduated Sussex University with a degree in Politics. I was a councillor for Rollesby ward 1995-1999. I currently work full time as a civil servant in Norwich. I was a trade union representative for six years until 2012, representing over 900 members across East Anglia, from this I gained experience in negotiation, organisation and employment matters. I am currently a member of Great Yarmouth & District Trades Union Council. In my spare time I read sci-fiction novels, books on history, politics and biographies. I watch little television, but when I do it will come as no surprise that I like the Parliament Channel and Channel 4 News. I listen to Radio 5 and when at the gym, Kiss FM. I like watching sport and recognise the value of sport in promoting social inclusion and health.