How did you get started in the trade and when was it?
The recession hit and my work as a demolition supervisor ended; twice!
My wife kept saying there are no chimney sweeps in our area, you should train up…
So I’d did, and in 2010 I completed my training and became my areas only local chimney sweep.
What do you like most about being a Chimney Sweep?
I love sweeping chimneys, there’s a certain satisfaction knowing you’ve done a really good job and made zero mess. People still think having their chimney swept means dust everywhere, when it is not the case anymore, when done by a trained professional.
I love chatting with my customers, and cracking the odd joke; they don’t call me the cheerful chimney sweep for nothing!
What is your favourite part of the job?
Meeting people, new and old. It’s strange how you remember a conversation you had a year ago and can follow up on it, once the “face” triggers a memory.
What do you think makes you a good, trustworthy Chimney Sweep?
In Devon, being on time…nobody is ever on time in Devon…
I’m open and honest and I have my own opinions- that’s me – and I’m very good at sweeping.
What would you like potential customers reading this to know about you?
I am a larger than life character, with a big heart. I really enjoy my work, and I take pride in my work. I am reliable and trustworthy, and I have an ever increasing customer base, largely by recommendation.
What music or radio station do you listen to in your van?
If I could, it’d be planet rock, but they deemed is “unworthy” this far down in Devon and removed it from the digital airwaves. So now it’s radio 2, and my AC/DC Cds.
Favourite book, Film, TV Series?
I have dyslexia
Still Game (I’m Scottish)
The Green Mile
When you’re not working what else do you like doing?
Baking cakes. I am a vegan, and I bake cakes. I make them because they’re damned good, and I donate a portion of the proceeds to good causes.