About
I was born in Manchester and brought up in Oxford. I studied English at Bristol University, then journalism at City University, and then started work as a journalist and editor on many magazines for health professionals – Therapy Weekly, Health Service Journal, Nursing Times, Professional Social Work – and then began a long-term relationship with The Times newspaper, writing health articles and editing health sections.
Throughout my career, alongside my journalism, I've worked with a wide range of professional and patient organisations, helping them communicate their messages effectively in a wide variety of ways. I've also written and contributed to several books
My Times articles medical writing has led to a deep interest in science storytelling. I'm learning every day about the human experience of health and illness, and the reality of how science, medicine, politics and knowledge affect quality of life. Patient perspectives are intrinsic to everything I do.
I live in Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex, with my wife Mirella, two daughters and two demanding collies.
Awards
Freelance Journalist of the Year, Medical Journalists' Association Awards 2009-10
Best Cancer Reporter Award, European School of Oncology, 2008
Best Health Information Publication (Times, Body&Soul section), Patients Association Awards, 2007
Plain English Award, for the BBC/Macmillan Cancer Relief Cancer Guide, 1998
BMA Patient Information Award, BBC Back Pain Guide, 1999
Awards
Freelance Journalist of the Year, Medical Journalists' Association Awards 2009-10
Best Cancer Reporter Award, European School of Oncology, 2008
Best Health Information Publication (Times, Body&Soul section), Patients Association Awards, 2007
Plain English Award, for the BBC/Macmillan Cancer Relief Cancer Guide, 1998
BMA Patient Information Award, BBC Back Pain Guide, 1999