I took a big risk to move to Newcastle upon Tyne 21 years ago, to live with my then girlfriend. I had to give up my house which had been difficult to get in the first place, and was somewhere I loved. Also, my family and friends were at home too. I consoled myself with the knowledge that it wasn’t too far away and I could still visit regularly, but I had many doubts. My children still lived with their mother and my job was at home too. I would have to drive 120 miles every day for work and to see my kids.

I did it, knowing those pressures, but it wasn’t easy. I have to say that some of those journeys were long and hard. They put enormous pressure on my physical and mental health and at times I don’t know how I carried on. In the end, I traveled that route for 5 years, but I got through it with strong relationships with my children intact, and had a good career.

I love living where I do. I’m really happy in my home and the area is a beautiful place to live, but I often look back and think I must have stupid. Sometimes, sacrifice and risk are worth taking. Sometimes, you have to close your eyes and take the plunge.