Biography

John was born in London and brought up in Fareham. Apart from five years living over the border in West Sussex he has always lived in the Portsmouth area and has resided for the last five years in Southsea with his partner and border terrier 'Nelson'.
 
Always having a strong interest in community politics John served as a Councillor in Fareham, representing Stubbington, for eight years including three years as Chairman of the Leisure Committee. In this capacity he was pleased to bring national art exhibitions to the town, to be involved in the development of Fareham Leisure Centre and to have been instrumental in providing the Princess Diana Memorial (sensory) Garden in Osborn Road. He also served for four years as a Chichester District Councillor (Chichester North) alongside volunteering as a guide at the Pallant House Gallery.
 
As Cabinet Member for Education, Children and Youth Services his goals are to ensure that children are placed top of the agenda, to assist in the improvement of attainment in our schools at all levels, to ensure that children with special educational needs have the best opportunities for future life and to protect those children who are most vulnerable in the City.
 
After six years working in accountancy John undertook a degree in Fine and Decorative Arts Valuation at Southampton Solent University. Thereafter he became a junior valuer at an antiques auctioneers in West Sussex, rising to become a senior valuer, auctioneer and Financial Director.  He left that role, after thirteen years, in August to concentrate on his role as a Councillor but will be returning to University this year to study for a Master's degree in Museum Studies. He is a Member of the Royal Institution for Chartered Surveyors.
 
When not involved in politics John likes to garden, travel around Europe and undertake research into local history. He is a Trustee of the King's Theatre, member of the Portsmouth and Fareham Societies, and gives talks on antiques.