Born in Rotherham in South Yorkshire, England and enjoyed every minute of his 45 years as a teacher. Significantly, won an award - a book about Biggles that was too precious to actually read - aged 11 at Netherfield Lane Junior School because Miss Ward thought I could write well. Until my OBE for services to education in 2016, presented by the Queen, Miss Ward's book mattered most. I owe it to Miss Ward's faith in me to become a writer. So I have..