I was trained in translation and interpreting at Bradford Technical College from 1971-73, and hold the college's "Foreign Correspondent" diploma. I also obtained the intermediate certificate in French from the Institute of Linguists. In the intervening years, I worked as a secretary at BBC News, then became a journalist myself, so I have always been artistic in using the English language, which helps me to make my translations sound interesting and coherent.

I have been trained in speech and drama, which would be useful for voiceover work.

After bringing up my family, I retrained as a teacher of English as a foreign language to adults, which gave me further insight into the importance of using language correctly for avoiding misunderstandings. I have also been Mayoress of Hastings, as my husband was Mayor from 1996-98. I write a lot of poetry and stories, and have had one book published, "Pylons and Prefects" which was a child-friendly history of my son's school in England.

I moved to Montpellier, France, in November 2011, and began freelance translation work and English teaching. The clients I have served so far have been very satisfied with my services.