Mike lives in Keswick and prior to retirement had spent a lifetime as a dental specialist in clinical practice and later in NHS administration.

He has a long experience of outdoor pursuits, including walking, climbing, cycling and sailing. Mike is Secretary of the West Cumbria Group of the Rambler's Association and a member of both Area Council and Area Footpath Committees, a Trustee and member of the Executive of the Friends of the Lake District and previously served on the Lake District National Park LAF.

Mike is married with two children and two grandchildren.