Born in 1949 into a Christian family, John's father was a Baptist minister. John was himself an accredited Baptist minister for thirty-three years, and before that was involved in running a group of building companies. He has been married for almost thirty-nine years to Jennie and has two children and six grandchildren. John and his wife were called to Ellel Ministries Glyndley Manor near Eastbourne three years ago as wardens and team pastors. Amongst his various roles, John also works as a modular school manager, is a teacher, and is also a member of the Leadership Support Group