Michael was Born in Edinburgh and grew up in Penicuik. After leaving School Michael Worked for Midlothian Council for 13 years. He was active with NALGO and latterly UNISON as Branch Secretary.
Michael has spent most of his Adult life in the Borders. Most recently in Burnfoot in Hawick. He is married to Claire and they have three children Andrew, Esther and Fiona. Andrew is at Abertay University doing a Nursing Degree and Esther and Fiona are both at Hawick High School.
Michael is involved in the Parent Council at Hawick High School, he is a member of Burnfoot Community Council and a member of the Hawick Common Riding Committee.
Michael is a Full time Carer for his Wife, Claire who suffers from Chronic Pain in her back, arms and Legs. Michael has actively campaigned for better rights for Carers and was part of a delegation of Carers that met with the Party Leaders in the Scottish Parliament earlier this year organised by The Princess Royal Trust for Carers and Carers (Scotland). Michael Regularly attends the Scottish Parliament Cross party Group on Carers and both he and Claire are involved in the Scottish Parliament Cross Party Group on Chronic Pain. Michael is a Member of the Management Committee of the Princess Royal Trust for Carers Borders Carers Centre and is on the Scottish Committee of Carers (Scotland) which is an advisory Committee to the board of Trustees.
Michael is a Co-op Party member and has Spoke at the Scottish Co-op Party Conference. Michael is also a Member of the trade union UNITE.
