I started Fortitude with Mark in 2002 when we decided what the world needed was a financial advisory firm dedicated to serving its clients’ best interests.

I love the knowledge of a job well done. The conversations with clients where we explore what they need and them putting their trust in me and us to help them achieve their goals.

What are you passionate about promoting?

I want everyone to experience proper financial planning, this should lead them to improved financial wellbeing. I have worked for years within various professional bodies to help get the message across and I do hope we are winning.

My career of giving financial advice began in 1984 although it was seen as product selling then. I was just out of university and arranging mortgages for clients of the Leeds Permanent. The idea that I am approaching 40 years of advice is beyond possible!

Since I started we have seen many scandals all of which I have avoided by being scrupulously ethical. This allows me to sleep at night knowing that I have done my best. We have also seen regulation, regulation, regulation to tackle misguided behaviour. It’s better now but we need more ethics and less regulation.

What do you do outside work?

My work as a cricket groundsman, cricket player and cricket umpire keep me busy but don’t stop me being Chair of the Parish Council (6 years and counting) as well as working in the Pocket Park. I love my cars and membership of the Alfa Romeo owners club gives me an opportunity to visit collections of old cars across the country.

What are your favourite places?

We rarely go abroad (not keen on flying, for lots of reasons) and now my children are adults Davina and I spend holidays in the UK, with Northumberland a favourite.