Whilst a native of Northumberland, I’ve lived in Radstock, Somerset for many years, and enjoy walking in the open countryside with my family and dog Finn.

I’ve been fortunate to have had a diverse career over the years; musician, archaeologist, chef, trainer, coach – and now Humanist funeral celebrant. I’ve worked with people who were navigating their way through difficult and often challenging circumstances, including working with the carers of people who were nearing the end of their lives, or had been recently bereaved.

Unbeknown to me at the time, this was all excellent preparation and experience for my celebrant role. I’ve developed good questioning and listening skills which I use when meeting with friends and family of the person who’s died to build a detailed life story and craft an appropriate ceremony. The skills I’ve developed as a performer and presenter help me engage and hold the attention of the people attending the funeral or memorial ceremony.

I’ve experienced many bereavements over the years – and increasingly more as I get older. I’ve been a grieving grandson, son, brother, brother-in-law and best friend to people who have died. Sometimes after periods of illness, or suddenly and unexpectedly. At other times as the natural conclusion to a long life.

Most of these funerals left me cold. The person who’d died seemed secondary to the religious aspects and the promise of the life to come – none of which I believed, and had rejected many years ago. The exception was my brother-in-law’s funeral which was conducted by a Humanist celebrant. This was all about him and his life and created a memorable experience through which he lived on in the memories of those who knew him.

I went on to deliver the eulogies at both of my parents funerals and brought their life stories to life in otherwise dull, formulaic religious church services. This led me to explore my own beliefs and values and recognise that these are very much aligned with Humanism.

As a Humanist I believe that we have one life, and death is the end of that life. I strive to live that life well and enjoy the things that give it meaning: relationships, worthwhile projects, simple pleasures, the beauty of nature and the arts, curiosity, creativity and love.

Training with Humanists UK to become an accredited funeral celebrant was a logical step, and I’d welcome the opportunity to talk with you to see if I’m the right person to help you with the funeral you’re planning.