I was born in the UK and in my earlier life travelled the world in my sea going officer profession. My working in life has been in the various roles in the marine industry including port operations, marine pilot and Ships Master.

My wife and I emigrated to NZ in 2007 and settled in Paraparaumu in 2009 and prior to early retirement I worked for Interisland and finishing as ship’s captain.

Following my early retirement, I wanted to keep active and looked at areas I could help in the community, so I joined Citizen Advice Bureau and then 9 years ago joined Kapiti Rotary.

Its been a great experience with Rotary, supporting our local youth projects, raising money though our fundraising projects for essential charities like Wellington Free ambulance, Life Flight, Mary Potter Hospice and many others.

Its also about having fun and making new friends both locally and internationally. We have over 60 members in our club from all different walks of life. Also to date my wife and I have had two friendship exchange visits between USA Rotary clubs and on their visit to NZ we hosted them and showed them around NZ.

I have two children and 3 granddaughters; my son and his family still live in the UK and my daughter’s family and 1 granddaughter emigrated to the Gold Coast 3 years ago.

I enjoy playing golf at Paraparaumu beach GC and have an interest in most sports and follow the premier league with my team Liverpool FC.

I am honoured to be president of this great Rotary club this year and look forward to making a lasting impact locally through our fundraising projects and the Mini Golf at Mazengarb.