Although I was born in Exeter, most of my early life was spent in Essex and Bournemouth, before returning to Devon and Otterton via Tavistock, some 28 years ago. I now think I am considered a "local" !!! I am now a self-employed Consultant in Drainage, Waste Treatment, etc. after spending most of my career in Local Government and South West Water. For relaxation, both my wife, Wendy, and I, enjoy walking this pleasant land, particularly Dartmoor and the Coastal Footpath and have also ventured abroad on walking holidays. We also both play in local wind bands, although, in my case, not very well on French Horn. Before joining the "OICS" I have been building up my own Portfolio of shares for the last 5 years, although in the last 18 months it has been a case of gritting the teeth in anticipation of better times.