Started out as an enthusiastic and talented footballer. Spent some time on the books of Sheffield Wednesday as a goalkeeper. His interest in golf was sparked by two uncles who played the game and gave him some clubs. Played in a local park until spotted by member of Hillsborough GC who helped him obtain junior membership. Became an assistant at Worksop where he helped a certain young member called Lee Westwood to progress through the ranks. Graduated to the main Tour for a second time through the Challenge Tour in 1998. Has been hampered by a dreadful series of injuries since then, starting with a debilitating thyroid problem from 2000 onwards. Seemed to be over that, only to discover a tumorous bone growth in his sternum in 2006. Had the growth removed and returned to playing that same season after, but only really got back to full fitness towards the end of last year, heralding his return in some style by winning his card at the Qualifying School – Final Stage, where a brilliant four under par final round saw him make a late charge to The 2009 European Tour.