Gary and Jan have lived in this area since 1979 and have two grown up children both born in Plymouth and educated at local state schools. They are now blessed with four grandchildren, all of whom live locally.

Gary was brought up on a dairy farm in East Devon while Janet hails from the north (Barnstaple!). They live in the South Hams and are members of a Plympton church.

Before entering politics, Gary was a partner in a large local law firm and served on the Plymouth City Council for six years, two of them as chairman of housing.  He was first elected to Parliament in 1992 and has held several ministerial and front bench posts. Most recently he has chaired various committees in the House of Commons.

Jan has a lifelong love of horses. Gary’s passion for the countryside stems from his farming background.

Having served as a Member of Parliament since 1992, Gary announced his decision not to stand in the next General Election in November 2023. When Parliament dissolved on 30th May 2024, his retirement began.