Family moved to Yorkshire from Wigan Lancs in early 1900’s. Joseph (known as Steve) became a miner at Grimethorpe Coal Mine like his father and was very involved with the Mining Unions in the area, becoming Secretary at one stage.

Eventually left mining and went to College training to become a Probation Officer- eventually running Children’s homes in Oxfordshire. Now retired.

Served as a Royal Marine in WW11.

Excellent, self taught gardener. Loves reading – particularly poetry and Shakespeare.