Born in 1964 the fifth of seven children (poor TV in those days) I was educated to high school level then in 1980 I joined the army aged 16. I spent an active 24 years in the Parachute Regiment (British Rangers)and gained much operational experience. The diversity of the various cultures my service time gave me exposure to only helped fuel an already active imagination. Prior to my writing I mainly read non-fiction, but have found that by writing fantasy I can channel my experiences into my stories without upsetting anybody. I'm not saying my book is based on reality just that certain elements in characters or situations have been sparked by past experiences. I believe it helps make the fantastical believable and hope it makes for an interesting read. Since writing 'The Mapping of Markesh,' I have discovered the fantasy fiction genre anew and have since read a lot of Raymond E Feist and JRR Tolkien. The availability of other interactive ventures mean I spend more time writing than reading (computer nut!) I enjoy the story telling and it helps focus the mind. It is by chance my book came to print and I hope it gives readers as much pleasure as it as given me during its creation! Having retired from the military in Nov 2004, life now is much slower and I have taken a year out to write, paint and make my home comfortable. This is the first year my wife hasn't had to say goodbye to me as I fly to another of the worlds trouble zones. Life’s much different now and lacks the adventure I’ve grown accustomed to, hence the writing of fantasy!

I gained no major qualifications just the normal variety of O levels at secondary school leaving level. My best results were in painting and drawing, and sculpture. (I still paint a lot)
I Have gained post school qualifications in management and have various military awards. I have represented the country in a number of international Sniping competitions and spent two years teaching Sniping at British Army Sniper school.
Finished my career as WO2 (sgt-major)

'The Mapping of Markesh,' a fantasy novel printed in Feb 2005 is out now and I am currently working on a follow up novel, 'The Seat of the Ajya-na-ku.'There will most probably be another two to three books following the current story line and another two or three based in the Markesh scenario.

The Markesh informaton page
The Mapping of Markesh info page