Date & place of birth:
September 20 1971; Kingsbury, north London (near Wembley).

Profession:
Account Executive at Light & Sound Design Fourth Phase.

What was your first professional job?:
Office Junior at a Chartered Surveyors (commercial property) based in central London.

Why lighting?
I fell into the job, just like many others within the industry, but how I got into the job is a story and a half. I bought my first drum kit at the tender age of nine, but lost interest within a couple of years. My brother, Spencer, later decided to drag my kit out of retirement and ended up in a rockabilly band, playing clubs and pubs.
One particular night back in 1990, at Dingwalls, the band was spotted by Morrissey's agent. He was looking for a backing band to support Moz on what eventually became a European tour. Before long I flew out to New York's Madison Square Garden (July 1991) to see my brother, his band mates and Moz in action.
I was backstage after the show and bumped into John Wynne and Ian 'Tokes' Tokins. I took an immediate interest in what was going on (the load out) and asked how to get into the job. "Call Hughie (Frazer-Mann) at Sammies in Greenford," they said, "and he'll give you a job coiling cable!" ... and there we have it.
There's another part to this story which was just unbelievable. On the flight to New York I found a seat and got chatting to the guy sitting next to me. He asked me whether it was a holiday or business trip. I said I was going to see my brother at MSG who was playing drums for a well-known artist. "Have you heard of Morrissey?" I said, with a proud look on my face. "Yes I have," he replied, "do you know who I am?". I shook my head and waited for his reply. "I'm Andy Rourke, ex-Smiths drummer". I passed out!

Your biggest career inspiration?
I have been inspired by many, far too many to mention, but I would like to say thanks to Dave Keighley, Simon Tutchener, Kim Gavin, Peter Hillier, Pat Marks and Peter Barnes.

What's been your biggest professional achievement?
Production Manager for the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Royal Albert Hall, July 2002.

Will you become more involved in production management?
Yes, definitely. I take a lot of pride and satisfaction with what I'm doing right now within lighting but every now and again I have to deal with the big picture which really appeals to me Also, it's good to put yourself in everyone else's shoes for a change and deal with all of their requirements. The best part is that you learn something new everyday.

What was the last record/CD you bought?:
The Verve's Urban Hymns. I'd been meaning to buy it for ages.

The last live show you attended as a punter?:
The absolutely breathtaking and overwhelming Pink Floyd's Division Bell at Earl's Court back in 1994.

Any hobbies?
Ligging, Channel hopping and watching the Comic Strip's 'Mr. Jolly Lives Next Door' over and over again.

If you were to meet up with the teenage Lester Cobrin, what advice would you give him?
If you're not sure about anything, don't be afraid to stick your hand up and ask, no matter how embarrassing it maybe. Enjoy life, it's far too short.

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