I studied theatre design from 1972 to 1975 at Croydon College of Art which not only included set and costume design, but also the practical skills of scenic construction and painting, prop-making, costume making and millinery. While still at college, I was fortunate to gain work experience with various prop-making work, and increasingly I spent my time outside college making scale set models for several designers including Hans Christian, William Dudley, Tim Goodchild, John Gunter, Pamela Howard, Norman McDowell and Robin Piddock.
Having made set models, prepared technical drawings and made various props for Tim Goodchild while still at college, I worked with him full time for my first year after leaving college.
Initially working from home, I took my first workshop just off the Portobello Road for just over a year and I then moved to a workshop in Lots Road, Chelsea where I was based for over thirty-five years. I was always supported by a brilliant team which at our busiest time extended to over thirty people. I moved from London in 2003, and now live and work near Birmingham.
From the beginning, I made a large variety of set-props, hand-props, and costume props (that's anything that's worn, and is not costume), crowns, jewellery, masks, head-dresses, armour, animals, spacesuits etc. plus some costumes, hats, shoes etc. Over the years I have gradually specialised in crowns, jewellery and jewellery related props, which now make up the majority of my work.