I was educated at Trowbridge Girls’ Grammar School (1967 - 1972) and  Trowbridge College of Further Education (1972 - 1974) where I gained A  levels in Social and Economic History, Sociology and English Language. I also passed with distinction the AEB Use of English examination. I commenced work for WiltshireCounty Council in 1974 and studied part time for the Higher National Certificate in Public Administration. During my 38 years of employment with the council I worked in a variety of roles: the assessment of children with special needs, student financial support, adviser and curriculum support and latterly in a trainer and training co-ordinator role.

Since retirement I have worked on a freelance basis as both an Ofsted inspector of schools and as an Expert by Experience inspector for the Care Quality Commission. I am also the principal carer for my husband. All these roles have involved the need for public speaking and equally  important, listening. They have given me experience of working with people from a diverse range of backgrounds.

I am an elder of the United Reformed Church in Westbury where I have frequently led worship at services. I am also the Authorised person for our church which means I have had training in the registrar role and I have attended several weddings in a ‘working’ role as well as attending as a guest at a variety of marriages at different types of venues including hand-tying, secular, informal, woodland and traditional. I have observed how the most successful events have suited the individual couple and been very privileged to join in their celebrations.

Although personally I have a Christian faith I am aware that many United Kingdom residents do not. For some time I have been considering that I would be suited to the role of celebrant as I can appreciate that people may want to share the most significant occasions of their, and their relatives’ lives in a tribute or celebration that ranges from non religious to traditional at a time when people may be grieving, anxious or excited.

Attendance at funerals weddings and naming ceremonies have impressed upon me the need to ensure family and friends ‘own’ the event. I was once at a cremation where the leader said that the lady had wanted a particular hymn but no one could find it in the hymn book so he had picked one of his choice. This left a lasting impression on me since it seemed both to lack professionalism and devalue the wishes of the deceased. Something I would want to avoid in my future role. Each ceremony therefore will be unique

Throughout my working and personal life I have always striven to ‘make a difference’. I would hope in the role of a celebrant to be able to carry on with this intention and to help the event be memorable and supportive for all those who attend.

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