About Me

Why I am Standing for Election

I have not stood for public office before. However, I have an extensive professional background, including working closely with the Police in a number of different roles and I have gained a deep understanding of many of the challenges encountered by our Police today. I have knowledge, skills, and experience that equip me to do this job well. I have a deep commitment to make a positive difference to the lives of people in Hampshire and the IOW.

I grew up in a village on the Hampshire/Wiltshire border near Romsey and attended my local village primary school and Bishop Wordsworth’s Grammar School in Salisbury. I have lived all my adult life in Hampshire. I married Carol in 1981. We have one son Matt, who is a Southampton City Councillor and University Lecturer.

I am a very resilient person and I do not give up in the face of adversity.

Having had a varied, and sometimes challenging career, I believe that I have the knowledge, skills, and experience required for the role of Police and Crime Commissioner. As a passionate member of the Labour movement, I have the desire to give myself fully to serving both our Police Force and our community.

My Interests

I am a passionate sportsman and have played Rugby and Cricket at local club level for many years.

I also enjoy cycling, hiking, and mountain climbing, including, in 2009, reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro and raising thousands of pounds for charity in the process.

At the summit of Kilimanjaro

I am strongly committed to the environmental. I am a member of the Hampshire and IOW Wildlife Trust, the Hampshire Ornithological Society and serve on the Committee of the Friends of Riverside Park in Southampton.

I carry out a number of voluntary roles, including mentoring for Southampton Solent University, driving for the Southampton food bank. I am an active member of my local Church.