Mike was born and brought up in the south-east of England, until going to university in London. After graduating he moved to Newcastle then took up employment in Zambia for three years. Since returning from there his employment as a geotechnical engineer in the construction industry has taken him to live in Linlithgow, Wendover, Lichfield and Ripon. Redundancy led to a move back to Scotland in 2004, settling in Rhynie in 2008.

Now firmly, and finally, settled in Rhynie with wife, Anny, 1 foster child, 1 dog, 1 cat, 8 chickens, 3 horses and 2 donkeys.

While working as a self-employed website designer, Mike has also been involved with the Huntly Business Association, serving as Secretary and Treasurer, and with the annual Huntly Hairst Festival. He has also spent some time as a group leader for long-distance horse trails, leading riders across Wales and Scotland. Now retired, he is free to concentrate more time on his mountain biking, being a foster carer and work around the home.

Janice is a retired Lecturer in Horticulture working latterly at NESCol with Learning Opportunities students. She has worked within the Horticulture and Garden Centre trade for many years as a Buyer, Area Sales Manager and Garden Centre Manager. She is currently a Trustee and Secretary/Treasurer of The Glens of Foudland Windfarm Community Trust, Board Member of Marr Area Partnership and is also Secretary/Treasurer of Tap O' Noth Community Council.

With a lifelong interest in gardening, wildlife and conservation she is involved within the community promoting plant, seed and produce swaps and giveaways and hopes to promote more "grow your own" enterprises within the community area.