Richard was born in the market town of Hexham, Northumberland, and after finishing high school, he joined the British Army as a Royal Military Policeman. His career saw him serve in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Germany, Cyprus, Canada, Bosnia, Greece, Macedonia, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan, and during those years, he transitioned roles from General Police Duties to the Special Investigation Branch. The latter of the roles involved him in some high-profile investigations, which were often the subject of national news.
The Old Oak Custom Wood Art was born when someone suggested that Richard should sell the bowls he created as a result of his hobby. He attends craft fairs in Yorkshire and the North East of England.
Richard is married to the love of his life and soul mate, Sarah, and they have four children, accompanied by two dogs, two cats and some fish(!)