Les was born in Cornwall in 1953, one of 12 children and the oldest of only two boys. He joined the Army straight from school, trained as a chef and reached the dizzy heights of Warrant Officer. Les has always worked in catering, but at the age of 59, prompted by his love of reading and on joining a small writing group, decided to try his hand at writing. He now lives in Gloucester with his husband Tony and two dogs, and loves the quiet beauty of the Cotswolds.