I live in Tarland, Aberdeenshire, but for 29 years was a resident of Durness, Sutherland, in the far north of the Highlands, where I was the headteacher in the local school. I have helped many people to trace their ancestry to Northwest Sutherland and West Aberdeenshire as well as guiding them to the home of their forebearers. A good understanding of local and social history has helped this process. I have been involved in archaeology in both field work and excavation; particularly in the pre-agricultural revolution/Highland Clearance landscape, but also in early Christian and prehistoric sites. I have a passion for gardening and the countryside in general. The music, folklore, song and dance of Scotland, particularly of the Northeast, is also a source of interest and enjoyment to me. Since qualifying as a guide in 2014 I have toured extensively in central and northern Scotland including the Orkney and Western Islands. I have also carried out day tours in Aberdeen city and shire as well as to whisky distilleries. I have led specialist tours to historic homes and ones involving steam traction and travelling by train. Extended touring, where there is time to get to grips with the culture and scenery of Scotland, is something I particularly enjoy doing.