Welcome to the 'About me' Page

My numerous  interests are wide-ranging from composing music, watching ice hockey, to the study glaciers. However I am initially covering astronomy and genealogy with which I am actively involved.

I became Editor of 'The Astronomer', a monthly magazine for active observers of the night sky, in 1975 and still hold this post 32 years later which shows it is dangerous to volunteer!

In 1976 I formed the UK Nova/Supernova patrol to encourage amateur astronomers to search for these exploding stars. The numerous successes using both simple binoculars and more advanced electronic telescopes means the project appeals to many observers. If you are interested in more detail go to the 'contact me' page.

From 2001 to 2003, I was President of the British Astronomical Association and earlier, in June 1998,  received the Walter Goodacre Medal from the Association .

In October 2005 I received an award from the Royal Astronomical Society (professional astronomers) for services to astronomy.

My main aim has been to promote active observing of the night sky. Regular meetings are held and you may be interested in a new initiative, the launch of observers' workshops

My genealogy studies started in 2000 at the request of my wife's relatives who are mainly based in Lincolnshire. In the first years I have linked details of over 500 ancestors and have now started to research my side of the family.