My father was, and still is, an avid reader and encouraged me to do the same. We always had books at home and were all keen members of the local library.
My mother, Meg Hutchinson, encouraged me to write stories when I was still in school. I remember on one occasion having to write a story for an exam. Having no idea what to cover, mum suggested ‘The Life History of a Piece of Paper.’ After giving me a few ideas she left me to my task.