My earliest memory of being interested in midwifery was when I was fifteen years old. I mentioned to my Mother that I had read about direct-entry midwives, thinking that it would be a good profession for her. It was the combination of the practical and theoretical that appealed to me.

I qualified as a direct-entry midwife from Anglia Polytechnic University in Chelmsford, Essex, before working for several years as a Staff Midwife in an NHS Hospital and later in the community setting.

It was at University that I first realised that there were Independent Midwives available for women, who perhaps wanted one to one care, had a previous bad experience, or just wanted individualised care. This appealed to me greatly and I knew that I would eventually practice in this way.

It feels so natural to continue seeing a woman throughout her pregnancy, birth and after, when help is quite often needed with breastfeeding and the adjustment into parenthood.

Working this way, we get to know each other very well. This is particularly important during birthing where it is acknowledged that knowing those around you at this special time has great benefits.

I strongly believe that women should enjoy their pregnancy and birth and feel this is achievable with a midwife who informs the woman of her choices, is always available and can give her plenty of time.

I am qualified in massage and aromatherapy which can be used during all stages of pregnancy, birth and beyond and have many contacts in other fields of alternative therapies should they be needed.

I am married and have three adult children, one daughter and two sons, of which the younger lives at home with me. I also have two grandchildren who usually stay over one night and day at the weekend. I enjoy cooking, running, long walks and am at my happiest on a mountain top.