I was born and educated in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire and am married to Mike and have two sons, Daniel and Christopher.
Leaving school I trained as a hairdresser and beautician. In my later working life I became involved in nursing and worked for the Northampton Community Nursing Service and more recently as a Marie Curie Nurse.
I first came to Northampton 38 years ago and enjoyed living here so much decided to stay and make my home here.
I have been a Borough Councillor for 18 years and a County Councillor for 5 years.
On the Borough Council I have taken particular interest in Housing and Environmental issues such as climate change, air pollution and flooding of Northampton.
On the County Council I have been Chair of the Public Protection Scrutiny Committee and am now Deputy Chair of Stronger Communities Scrutiny Committee.
I have been a member of the board of Northampton Theatre Trust for many years and for the last 14 years have been a governor at the local school.
I am also a member of the board on Welfare Rights and the Rape and Incest Board, both of which do wonderful work.
In 2005 I had the great honour in becoming Mayor of Northampton. As Mayor I attended numerous events meeting people in all walks of life, also raising over £20,000 for my two charities, Marie Curie Cancer Care and Mencap Northampton.
My interest in the voluntary sector has always been paramount. I am commited to help them as much as possible in all their excellent work.
In my leisure time I enjoy cooking, gardening at our allotment and reading.
My grandfather did actually know Lloyd George.