Born 1945 and raised in North of England (Lancashire and Yorkshire) but attended public school in Cambridge from age 13 to 18.

BA (hons) in English and Fine Art Combined from University of Leeds (1967) Lectured in General Studies, English and Art at College of Further Education for eight years. Won first prize in two consecutive New Writer competitions for BBC (one Radio and one TV). Entered RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) as Acting Student on scholarship (1975). Left RADA as Ronson Award Winner (Most Promising Actor of Year)(1977). 1977-1980: Member of RSC (Royal Shakespeare Company). 1980-1990: mainly leading roles in major regional theatres with occasional minor TV appearances. 1990 onwards: mainly television and film appearances with some London theatre work (primarily letting loose as dame or villain in the famous Stratford Theatre Royal's traditional pantomimes).