John moved with his wife Gill to Bury in 2006 from Rickmansworth, Herts, after a career in financial services. Served as a governor at both primary and secondary school level and group secretary of a local scouting association. In Bury, has been involved with various local activities including a driver on the local minibus service for 13 years and assisting with various social gatherings including the Bury Village Christmas Lunch. Organiser of the monthly coffee mornings for a number of years. Joined Bury Parish Council in March 2017.