With a love of sport from an early age, Ben studied Sport and Physical Education at Cardiff Metropolitan University, and expected to pursue a career in physiology or sports medicine. However, after University and a bit of good fortune, he settled into banking roles in the City of London and remains with the same company 17 years later.

Ben has always had a passion for reading, writing and playing with words, but writing remained a hobby and party piece for many years.

He joined his firm’s Corporate Communications team in 2014, where he is responsible for its employee communications and media relations in Europe, and writing and editing is now his full time role.

He fondly remembers a visit of famed author Michael Rosen to his primary school many years ago. If this wasn’t the spark for him to embark on writing children’s picture books, then the birth of his daughter in 2015 certainly was.

He wanted to write books for the family to enjoy, and that challenged the perception that children are growing up without communication skills, manners, resilience, perseverance, interest in playing outside or living a healthy lifestyle.

His first book ‘The Superhero Who Couldn’t Fly’, published by Jelly Bean Books and illustrated by Patrick Coombes, emphasises these important characteristics. Its lead character – Lottie - also challenges gender stereotypes by being strong, spirited, sporty and a superhero! The book is aimed at pre-school and primary age children, but carries strong messages for children of all ages – boys and girls.

Ben’s other tales are safely tucked away and ready to go, but that’s another story!