I am a retired town planner and landscape architect. In 1973 I undertook a three-month 12,000-mile tour of ten European countries to examine how recreational pressures on the environment may be managed by creating centres of attraction based on cultural and historic resources. I used open air museums as the model, but the overall experience taught me resourcefulness in dealing with issues and opportunities throughout my career.

I worked for Countryside Commission for Scotland (on grant aid for recreation and conservation projects and survey of National Scenic Areas) and the Scottish Development Agency (on major land renewal schemes, economic regeneration combining physical and business development in Clydebank and Dundee. I secured the return of historic vessel RRS Discovery from London to Dundee).

As Director of Cumbria Tourist Board I spread tourism to parts of Cumbria other than the central Lakes and helped save the Settle–Carlisle railway line from closure. As a consultant I have worked with the design team for Garden Festival Wales, on project management for Rhondda Heritage Park and tourism strategy for Glasgow. I have also worked with the Welsh Development Agency on urban and rural economic regeneration and community initiatives and instigated support for green industries.

I retired 2004 and now volunteer in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).