Biography

>> I became a journalist in 1988, soon after leaving college, and have been writing for a living ever since.

Before joining Off Licence News in 1994, I worked on local newspapers, business publications, and had a stint in a public relations company.

I was news editor of the Morning Advertiser (the leading magazine for the pub trade) for a couple of years before being invited to take the editorship of Off Licence News in 2001. I relaunched the magazine, helping it achieve its dominant position in the UK take-home drinks trade, picking up of string of awards along the way.

At the end of 2005 my employers at William Reed Publishing bought the International Wine Challenge and a group of publications from Wilmington. Having been promoted to group editor, my task was to launch a new magazine (Wine & Spirit) and relaunch Drinks International, and run them alongside Off Licence News.

I have won several journalistic awards, including news writer of the year and features writer of the year at the PPA Business Food & Drink Journalism Awards, and the beer writer of the year trophy on two occasions in the British Guild of Beer Writers Awards (trade and technical section).

In late 2007 I embarked on a freelance career, retaining some links with William Reed Publishing as consulting editor but concentrating on my new role helping drinks industry clients to improve their communications.

I am also an associate director of Wine Intelligence, preparing reports and website material as well as advising on media relations.

I live in Sussex with my wife and three young children. I enjoy most open-air pursuits, particularly running and mountain biking, especially if my reward is a crisp Loire white or a pint of Harveys.