My name is Joe Potts and I am a born and bred Northumbrian, having lived and worked in the county all my life.

As well as being passionate about family history, I am very interested in local history and have studied it for many years. I am a keen hiker so I know the area very well. This gives me unique insight into the culture of the area and the people who live here and the generations who went before them. I have an understanding of why people were here and what they were doing.

In the past I have worked in the power generation and chemical industries before doing a spell in property development.

I studied maths and science subjects with Open University and was awarded a BA degree.

I have been a member of the Northumberland and Durham Family History Society since 1990. As well as doing extensive research into my own family I have carried out research for many friends. I have succeeded in solving many problems and mysteries during that time.

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