I was born in Horden, a colliery village on the East Coast of Durham and later, when a teenager, moved to the New Town of Peterlee. After several jobs working in labs, I trained as a mature student, teaching Primary School children.
I am interested in family and local history and have researched both. Two of my local history books have been published. The first if the history of the three deep mines on the Durham coast; Easington (where they filmed ‘Billy Elliot), Horden and Blackhall. The second book is a substantial history of the Burdon family, who owned most of the surrounding area from the 1700s.
I enjoy writing and write articles on various topics for the online newspaper, ‘North East Bylines,’ on occasion, during theatrical reviews when requested. Some articles have been published in the regional newspaper, “The Newcastle Journal.” I enjoy doing research for these articles.
I, along with my husband, give talks for the ‘Woodland Trust’. I have also given talks to organisations on other subjects, including topics arising from my books. I like writing, talking, reading, occasionally cooking and sometimes housework, but not ironing!