I was born in Sheffield but have lived near Windermere for almost 30 years.
Post Edinburgh University, I worked for several years in London with the wine merchant, Justerini & Brooks. I developed a love of fine wine but London life was not for me in the long term.

I am married to Alex, a 4th generation Cumbrian whose family owned a prominent business in Kendal and also established Abbott Hall Art Gallery and The Brewery Arts Centre along with two significant locally-focused charitable trusts.

I am fortunate to have been a trustee of The Frieda Scott Charitable Trust for 10 years and Chair for 3. The role involves overseeing and providing financial support to multiple organisations serving the needs of the most vulnerable in our county. It is a privilege that is both humbling and inspirational.

Alex and I have 3 adult children who have strong Cumbrian connections and regularly return for weekends and holidays. We live on our family’s organic farm and my wider interests are mostly focussed on the outdoors. I have had a life-long passion for horses and until recently enjoyed watching our children compete. I generally have a pair of binoculars with me when walking our dogs and enjoy learning to identify local flora and fauna, particularly birds.

We are lucky to live in such a beautiful environment and I am looking forward to travelling around our county this year, learning about the challenges faced by many in our communities and applauding those who do so much to address them.

In late April I will be walking the 73 miles of The Cumbria Way, visiting up to 25 charities along the way and raising money for the High Sheriff’s General Fund. The fund is managed by The Cumbria Community Foundation to which charities can apply for funding. At the end of my year in office I will be awarding grants from the High Sheriff’s General Fund.