Chris trained as a Marine Engineer and spent ten years as a maintenance engineer in a number of factories.  He then moved into management working as an industrial engineer for a further twelve years and over this period led on health and safety management in an engineering works and foundry.

He then moved to the public sector, working firstly in social housing, followed by nearly twenty years in highway management covering traffic regulations for both Rochdale Metropolitan Council and Lancashire County Council.

Chris also served as a neighbourhood councillor and parish councillor.

He is a volunteer for Tinnitus UK, working as a co-host for an online Tinnitus Support Group and as a facilitator for a face-to-face group in Earby. He is also secretary for Earby Community Centre and a member of the patient participation group for the Pendle Medical Partnership.