I live in the New Forest, love where I live, and most weeks can be found giving talks in Hampshire and beyond about this fascinating landscape that I’m lucky enough to call home. I regularly support schools by appearing as a guest speaker in assemblies, by developing learning materials for classrooms, and hosting guided walks and trips. I want to inspire a younger generation to take an interest in history and believe it should be accessible and engaging for all.

History societies

I’m involved with two local history societies. In 2021, I formed the New Forest & Hampshire Wartime Association, a group of volunteers dedicated to raising awareness of Second World War history in the New Forest. As part of this, I host talks to raise funds for the upkeep and regeneration of East Boldre village hall, the last surviving building from a former First World War airfield. I am one of the trustees of the hall’s charitable trust. Additionally, I serve on the committee of the long-established Beaulieu History Society, which aims to stimulate and increase interest in the history of Beaulieu and the surrounding area.

I also previously held a trustee position at the St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery in Lymington, and the now disbanded RAF Ibsley Airfield Heritage Trust.

Exhibitions

I have a particular passion for the Second World War history of the New Forest, especially the airfields constructed during that time, which have left a lasting impression on the landscape and social history. This interest led me to organise a successful airfield exhibition on RAF Beaulieu that attracted 1,500 visitors.

I am currently planning an exhibition about the Beaulieu River to be shown at Buckler’s Hard in 2026.

Writing & media

I write books on these topics, one of which will be published next year.

I also write local history articles which appear in the Waterside Herald magazine, where I share my research on a variety of topics. I’ve been a guest on the History Hit podcast with renowned historian Dan Snow, which averages three million listeners a month (listen to the episode here).

When not talking history, I run a marketing business.