The youngest of 9 kids, I believe life should be an adventure. I love difference; a world all the same would be so boring. I like to see life's humour, quirks and joy wherever possible.  And I want to see a world that is fair and caring and kind and just and happy, for everyone and for our planet. Because, what’s so funny about peace, love and understanding?

My life has been as colourful as I am - the great and not so great. I’ve backpacked around the world for a year in my 40s and again in my 50s. I’ve been morbidly obese and lost the weight and kept it off for years sharing my solution for how to do this, tried without luck to have kids in various ways, completely changed careers, and had to cope with someone else’s mental health challenges like you couldn’t imagine.

Presenting is my 2nd career. I was a politician in my 20s, rising to be the Leader (Principal Speaker) of the Green Party nationally and on its Executive for a number of years. I have spent over 25 years running charities and campaigns, and working at senior levels in public policy and government on a variety of issues, from national policy on children to culture-led regeneration.

I am so lucky to be able to combine these 2 careers now. I am an expert in how communities, charities and organisations can tackle issues and problems - working out what needs to happen and how to make the change. I have spent recent years supporting new people powered housing around the country. My top charity is Citizens Advice; I've worked with and for them for 30 years, and recently had a lengthy stint as interim CEO of one of the largest offices in the country in one of our most deprived cities.

Originally trained as a fashion designer, I try to live zero waste - pretty much all my presenter clothes come from charity and 2nd hand shops. (I share where and the cost on social media). I have a very strong spiritual side. I meditate daily and totally believe in and live by the Law of Attraction.

A typical Sagittarian, I'm on an endless quest to understand the meaning of life combined with an insatiable wanderlust. I love to make people smile and the world seem a bit sunnier and kinder. And also hopefully help people to look at the world in new, different ways.  Because that's what makes life exciting! 

My ideal evening is sitting round a large table with friends, listening to Depeche Mode, enjoying food, discussing life, the world, the universe, and Leeds United. Laughing or singing - preferably both!