Priest, Raconteur, Entertainer

Career:
In the Fifties, I had shows on BBC Look East and Anglia TV. I worked as a journalist, then qualified for teaching by taking a mature students course. While teaching, I was head-hunted to become an industrial training manager in London, looking after the education and training of 1300 staff from young wood-machinist apprentices to directors. I went back to State School teaching, eventually becoming Head of Glyn Derw Comprehensive High School in Cardiff. I then went into freelance lecturing, writing and show-business which I love.

Big break:
The invitation to present 'Fortean TV' on Channel 4. The series was a great success, and I’ve just gone on from show to show ever since.

Highlight:
Several - winning a CACLB (Churches Advisory Council for Local Broadcasting) commendation for presenting 'Stations of the Cross', starring as the question master of 'Holy Quiz' and also as the presenter of 'Bloody Towers'.

Low:
None I can think of. I just take life as it comes. You win some, you lose some - you never, never give up. Persistence and determination are the golden keys – in time they’ll open anything.

Arriving on the Harley:
There have been occasions over the years when I've turned up to a country church where the parish priest was on holiday. I would arrive on the Harley Davidson and see the looks of mild anxiety on the faces of church wardens until I get the leathers off and they see the dog collar!

Tips from the top:
Advice to prospective career changers: Think about it seriously before you decide. If you like it – go for it. Never be afraid. John L. Sullivan was a great World Heavyweight boxing champion. He used to climb into the ring and shout: "I’m John L.Sullivan – and I can lick any man alive!" That’s the attitude to have to a career change. There’s no job you can’t do. You can lick any problem they put in front of you.

Worst jobs:
I’ve never hated a job – but some work I enjoy much more than others. I’m happiest in TV, radio or teaching and lecturing. I’m least happy combing through the fine details of research work, or doing the accounts.

Schooldays:
I hated school and couldn’t leave fast enough. I was always a bit of a problem kid as far as the teachers were concerned. I did all the academic stuff after I’d left!