A native of Northern Ireland, Alan spent several years as a language teacher before moving to Switzerland in 1990 to pastor a new International Church on the shore of Lake Geneva – Westlake Church, in Nyon. He was there for 17 years during which time the church grew to the point where a satellite congregation was started close to the university of Lausanne.

In 2007 Alan moved back to Northern Ireland where for four years he pastored Portstewart Baptist Church. As well as a local ministry, PBC is a second spiritual home to many people across Northern Ireland, especially during the summer months.

Alan is now working towards a Doctor of Ministry degree via the Irish Baptist College and the University of Chester: he is also involved in some itinerant speaking, teaching and preaching in various settings.

He has been married to Pauline (see her Tales of Taughlumny blog) for over 25 years and they have two adult daughters.

Alan enjoys reading and watching The West Wing as well as regular visits to the gym. He has an irrational attachment to Everton Football Club which is probably the best football club in the world.