Qualifying from Nottingham University with a Ph.D. in Genetics, he began his studies in genealogy in 1979. Having been trained at the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies (IHGS), Canterbury, Kent, obtaining a Licentiateship in Genealogy and Heraldry (L.H.G.), he became a professional researcher with Achievements Ltd of Canterbury. He was the Research Manager.

Whilst at IHGS, as Director, he headed a team which, in conjunction with hospital research departments, used genealogical research to trace the inheritance of genetic abnormalities to identify those who may be at risk. These included "Young Onset" Altzheimer's, Ovarian Cancer and Von-Hippel Lindau's Disease. In 1994, he founded a new genealogical research company, becoming Research Director of Ancestors Ltd of Canterbury and later, of Dover.

He has trained a number of other practising genealogists as well as numerous students who have attended a wide range of educational courses run by IHGS, the Society of Genealogists (SoG) and London University (Birkbeck College). He lectures widely on all aspects of genealogy, its sources and research techniques.