I was born and raised near Stewartstown in East Tyrone and now live near Bellaghy in South Londonderry with Nigel and our three children.

Educated at Cookstown High School, I continued my studies and gained qualifications from the University of Ulster at Magee College, Londonderry, in Accounting followed by an Honours Degree in Business Studies at Jordanstown.

I spent some time working in accountancy in Lisburn before taking up the role of Office Manager for Billy Armstrong MLA in 1998. In 2007 I studied part-time achieving a SAC Diploma in Public Relations.

Having grown up on a dairy farm, and now married to a pig farmer I have always been involved in the promotion of local produce and supporting our home industries. I was a member of the local Young Farmers' Club.

I am active within my local community: a member of the Select Vestry in Ballyscullion Parish Church, a member of my local Parent Teachers Association and organise a local fitness class.

My introduction into politics many years ago has provided me with experience locally and I am currently Ulster Unionist Party Women's Development Officer. It is essential that we work with and develop the talent that we have - bring new faces into politics and making real change for those we aim to represent.