Meet the Storyteller

I grew up in Northumberland, on the banks of the River Till. I’ve lived in many places, from the Hebrides to Italy, and I’ve collected – or created – stories in every place. I’m a wanderer, but my roads always seem to bring me back to the areas where I was born, and I’ve now returned home to North Northumberland, where I live in a book-filled, ramshackle cottage, surrounded by old orchards and madcap animals.

I began telling traditional stories for audiences in 2017, after spending more than a decade working in teaching and creative practition with young people.

My inspiration comes from a deep sense of time and place, and my storytelling and research explore the relationship between people and landscape, and the ways in which they shape each other.

What do I do?

I tell traditional stories and legends for audiences of all ages. My stories have a particular focus on Northumberland and the Scottish Borders, although some come from further afield.

I also explore and research the deeper links between history, folklore, people, and landscape, something you can discover at the Bryneich Folklore Centre in Northumberland.

Along with research into the local history of North Northumberland, I undertake genealogical research, with a special interest in the stories and historical/geographical context behind the names and dates.