I currently work as a freelance textile conservation consultant. My Fellowship allowed me to study repair methodologies applied to historic tapestries and carpets in seven European countries, undertaken at a time of transition and review of restoration and conservation techniques in many institutions. This had an enormous impact on the development of techniques and teaching when working at the Victoria and Albert Museum, and later as a freelance conservator in private practice, and as Textile Conservation Adviser for the National Trust, during which time I also participated in international research projects and advisory groups.

In 2016 I was awarded the prestigious Plowden Medal for my contribution to textile conservation and the training of young conservators.

The Fellowship meant a great deal to me in the early years of my own career. It allowed me to become part of an international network of conservators, where collaboration and sharing of experience has encouraged new ideas and approaches to the preservation of our textile heritage. In more recent years a focus on the treatment of historic carpets has forced a review of what the commercial sector can offer.