I joined Rotherham Probus in November 2018 and, true to form, immediately set off on a long‑planned six‑week safari adventure across South Africa, travelling the Garden Route before heading through Botswana and into Zimbabwe. Before leaving, I had offered to help on the committee — and somewhere between Cape Town and the Okavango Delta I received a message congratulating me on becoming the new Vice Chair of Probus. An unexpected promotion while on safari, but one I’ve thoroughly enjoyed.

The talks delivered at Probus have always been varied, fascinating and full of insight. My own speaking journey began when members asked me to share highlights from that very safari trip. The combination of wildlife encounters, dramatic landscapes and personal stories proved so popular that it quickly became one of my most requested talks.

The following year I was invited to speak again, and soon afterwards other Probus groups began asking me to visit them as well. Word travels fast, and I now speak regularly across the region, continually adding new subjects to my growing list of presentations.

As a keen photographer with a love of the outdoors, travel and adventure, my talks are supported by high‑quality images and well‑researched facts. I’ve been fortunate to receive excellent feedback on both the photography and the storytelling. I prefer the human touch — meeting groups face to face and sharing experiences directly.

My work has also attracted wider interest, and I have been invited to record several episodes for the BBC’s Secret South Yorkshire (often referred to as “BBC Hidden South Yorkshire”), a popular BBC Radio Sheffield feature exploring the forgotten history, folklore and untold stories of our region.

Where will I travel next…? With a motorhome and a wife willing to navigate, the possibilities are endless — and I only ever ask for minimal travel costs.