I first developed an interest in complentary therapy at the age of 14, but after some negative comments from a careers advisor my interest received something of a knock.

When my mother became disabled, she turned to alternative approaches to her health, which rekindled my interest. I found that what I knew about the subject helped her, and with her encouragement I set about getting qualifications in complementary therapy.

I enroled at North Birmingham College on a holistic therapy course, followed by courses on Indian head massage & reiki. Despite often being the only man in July 2003 I qualified.