Similar to the first CD single I bought, I remember my first byline well. I wrote a letter to a computer games magazine when I was 11 to complain about an article parading a Baywatch actress across its pages with ‘risky’ comments about 14-year-boy antics, asking why they failed to recognise female gamers (or words to similar effect). To my surprise, I received a response from the editor, reading: “I know, you don’t have to work with the tw*t”. This was my first involvement with the media industry.

To my 11-year-old self, the response from an editor – and the open use of a swear word – was both fascinating and exciting and, I like to think, has tinged my passion for the popular written word ever since.

Since those innocent days of feminist assertions, I have joined the Guild of Motoring Writers, interviewed Chrissie Hynde, Will Young (and even a driver instructor about resuscitating a cat). I've turned orange, learnt to knit and had an age-defying electronic facelift (I'm really still 12-years-old) all in the name of journalism. I've reviewed Duffy's debut gig, trawled the streets to ask the public about petrol prices, had my photograph taken for The Sun (not Page Three, Mum) and even passed my 100 words per minute Teeline shorthand exam – without a doubt my greatest achievement to date.

I heart journalism because it gives me an excuse to talk to interesting people, be nosey and have those character building, 'what have I got myself into' moments - and then write about it afterwards.

To view a portfolio of my written work, please click on the typewriter button, 'P', on the left menu bar.