I later attended the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow where I went on to become a typical mid-course drop out after about a year and a half.

After various occupations, including a spell as a psychiatric nurse trainee, I settled in a "boring" computer office for twelve years.

My storytelling/tour guiding career was fuelled by employment as an in-character tour guide at a mediaeval pilgrimage site. This had me in the delightful role of a 15th century Jester.

Dressed in yellow and red and with an assortment of bells jingling in my ears all day, I would meet greet British and overseas visitors and guidethem around the site. While I enjoyed re-telling stories, listening to these visitors provided a rich source for gathering new stories.

I've always enjoyed sharing a good yarn and I test out new tales and all character developments on my four children, who are by far my sternest critics.

While telling stories is a natural asset for a tour guide, it is not enough to be able to talk for eight hours on a coach. I have completed training under the auspices of the HIE and hold the Welcome Host certificate for customer relations.

With a wide interest in both Scottish history and geography, I have tried to use life experiences to develop a style of touring which is both factual, when necessary, and also entertaining.