About

I’ve been fascinated with handwriting since my schooldays in the 60’s. That’s when I began to study monograms, calligraphy and copperplate as well.

The turning point came when a friend suggested I bought some engraving equipment that was advertised in Exchange and Mart magazine (the analogue, pre-internet eBay).

Because drumming was another passion of mine, the first object I practised on was a drum’s chromed rim. Hand engraving on glassware duly followed.

My first commercial work was glassware and metal engraving for the customers of Worsley Hall Garden Centre, now the RHS Garden Bridgewater.

In 1978, I established my business at Kendals, now House of Fraser. And it was on a piece of silverware that I first professionally engraved someone’s handwriting. On the lid of a silver cigarette case, I engraved the words ‘Just in Case’ in my customer’s own hand. Since then, the engraving of handwriting has become very popular. Signature engraving too!

Monograms in traditional script are probably my favourite discipline. Initials – intertwined and tastefully positioned on a Champagne bottle or jewellery item, for example – are now a firm favourite with customers.

For me, engraving is a way of life, and the reaction of a happy customer is beyond compare.

When I’m not engraving in our Manchester workshop or at my home in Southport, I enjoy running (though in my case, it’s more of a “dad run”!). And running along this bracing stretch of coastline is the perfect way to blow away the cobwebs.

I enjoy family life, the great outdoors, driving and swimming, and I’m a staunch supporter of Rawtenstall NSPCC.