I can be found in my studio most mornings at around 6:30am, spending a few minutes assessing the previous days painting. With a strong cup of coffee to hand I adjust to the new day and get myself into the right frame of mind to begin the days work.

I teach art to special needs students as often as I can, not only is it extremely rewarding I really enjoy this time out of my studio. If it's a studio day, I like to put in long hours, giving myself regular breaks as and when I feel the need. This is often governed by how absorbed I have become in the painting itself. I often have music playing in the background and vary the atmosphere with occasional sessions of classical music or something more contemporary. At other times I can work in complete silence, but I do love music, which is a constant source of inspiration. I set myself targets to keep up with the demand for my work, I have been known to burn the midnight oil on many occasions, but on average I work until around 7pm.

I try to spend as much quality time as possible with my son Mark, who is in his late teens. He looks forward to seeing my days work and I value his reaction, assessment and support - we enjoy each other's company and he is the most important part of my life.

In the evening I like to relax with a glass of red wine, and maybe the muse will arrive and bring with her new ideas and inspirations for future paintings.