I started my career as a Trainee Architectural Technician back in September 1979 working in both the public and private sectors,

I have vast experience in design/detailing work and contract administration. Whilst in private practice in the early 1990's I worked on a major extension to Cambridge University Library. I returned to the public sector a few years later working for Chester City Council then back to my roots in the North East at Gateshead Council. I was promoted to Team Leader level and my main client is the Northumbria Police Authority. I manage their portfolio, ensuring that the estate is suitable for the Chief Constables' operational requirements whilst giving best value to the authority. The role is mainly managing in house designers and surveyors but also tapping into external consultants when required. I am currently managing the role of the estates strategy which will include several new buildings.

I meet up with other Police Estate Managers regularly and we share best practice and details. Through this forum, and my interest in detail design, I have Chaired the National Custody Group for the last three years. The Group includes representatives from the Home Office, Operational Custody Officers, Architectural Technologists, architects and engineers and Police Estates Staff. The work undertaken by the group has culminated in the production of the 2006 version of the Home Office Custody Design Guide.