A lifetime steeped in journalism, with over 34 years at the Manchester Evening News, twelve as Editor-in-Chief and previously as a journalist at the Daily Mail.

Former president of the UK Society of Editors, a member of the Press Complaints Commission for four years, and a member of the DA Notice Committee, MOD.

Ran high profile campaigns and investigations including IRA bombing of Manchester and reported on international news events including the Lockerbie plane bomb and the “shoot-to-kill” inquiry in Northern Ireland.

Specialist knowledge of multi-media journalism convergence and trainer for overseas media houses on investigative reporting through the Thomson Foundation, in Nepal and India.

Extensive contacts in newspapers, broadcast and internet – has given evidence to Government select committee on wide ranging issues including privacy legislation.

As a consultant at Essential Communications for two years, wide experience of change management and behaviour change campaigns aimed at the public, including social media platforms. Health campaigns nominated for national communications awards.

Delivered internal/external communications and PR strategies to industry — NHS, environmental recycling, solicitors, sports management, employment law specialists, and food manufacturers.

Chairman of NHS Bury and independent governor of the University of Bolton. Fundraising board trustee for the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and Our Life, promoting health and wellbeing. Joined charity trek to summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in 2005. A member of the Manchester organising committee for the Commonwealth Games 2002. Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester.