I’ve been playing guitar and mandolin family instruments since the mid 1960s. I began building instruments in the early 1970s when I made an Appalachian style dulcimer for my wife Liz and a carved-top cittern for myself.

Instrument building became my full time work when we moved from the city into the countryside in 1975.

I added mandolins and bouzoukis soon after, these being closely based on my cittern design. In 1981 I built my first arch-top guitar, followed in 1983 by my first flat-top guitar.

I cycle (in good weather), play competitive table tennis and love walking in our local countryside with dog and camera. And I love building instruments.

‘ve known Stefan for many years, we met during my travels with Martin Simpson. I’ve owned Sobell instruments over the years and can tell you they are unique and special.