My career in the sign industry spans more than 45 years, beginning with traditional training at Hammersmith and West London College, where I earned my City & Guilds in Sign Work. My studies covered the full breadth of classic signmaking techniques — brush lettering, layout, gold‑leaf gilding, traditional screen printing, and acid etching — forming the foundation of the craftsmanship known for today.

Even before formal training, I was already learning the trade the old‑school way: assisting a traditional signwriter applying gold leaf to Hammersmith Bridge. That early exposure to heritage craft set the tone for a career built on precision and pride.

Throughout the 80s, 90s and early 2000s, I worked across the UK and Europe producing and fitting exhibition graphics and signage. My work took me to major venues including Earls Court, Olympia, Excel Docklands, and the NEC Birmingham, as well as international exhibition centres in Frankfurt, Munich, Paris, and Amsterdam. One standout project from this period was fitting out the Opel Museum just outside Frankfurt, a large‑scale installation that demanded precision, coordination, and the ability to work to exacting brand standards. These years sharpened my ability to deliver under pressure, adapt to complex environments, and maintain accuracy at scale.

In 2005, I founded Freebird Sign Services in Banbury, Oxfordshire. The business quickly became known for contract fitting, site surveys, and installation for leading sign companies such as Greens Signmakers, Signarama, and Fastsigns franchises nationwide. My approach blends traditional craftsmanship with modern systems, ensuring every sign — from vehicle graphics to large‑format installations — is fitted cleanly, safely, and with pride.

After a brief semi‑retirement during the pandemic, I returned to the part of the trade I love most: fitting. Today, Freebird Signs reflects my core values — loyalty, conscientious workmanship, and a mature, dependable attitude — offering clients the confidence that their project will be completed to the highest standard.