Took up golf aged 13 when his family moved to a home next to Filton Golf Club in Bristol. Father played off two, mother off nine while his brother reached a four handicap and played for Oxford University. Took ten years to gain his card through the 1995 Challenge Tour after nine attempts at qualifying. Suffered serious injury playing first event on the European Tour, the 1996 Catalan Open. Hit a rock and damaged his right arm. Went to Prof John Stanley at Wrightington near Wigan for surgery. Had three operations altogether, one to the wrist, one to the forearm and one to the elbow. Needed medical exemption in 1997 but lost card in 1998. Played left handed just to beat the boredom of having nothing to do - best was a level par 70 at Bristol and Clifton! Also did some hotel work, accounts and reception, to give him something to do. Returned to the School in 1998 and 1999 where he was successful.