From 1970 till late 2002, I was a Translator with the Council of the EU - one of the very first Britons to join that organisation. For most of that time, I was a Senior Translator (L/A 4), which involved much revision of others' work.

We had to handle all kinds of texts, most of them urgent, so there was little specialisation at the Council other than expertise in this or that language. I, for instance, was one of the few highly trusted translators handling Italian texts.

So: much experience with political, legal and economic material.

I have also translated catalogues for art exhibitions, film scripts and subtitles, as well as advertising and PR material.

Among other things, I've edited and proof-read doctoral theses.

I am interested in literary translation and have translated a couple of difficult novels from the Italian, with some acclaim from readers, critics and fellow-translators.

Excellent contacts in the world of classical music.

Lastly, I have some knowledge in relatively unusual areas: Eastern philosophy, religions, in particular Buddhism; bodywork, and "qi" (or vital energy).

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Of course, most of my professional experience having been as an official of an international institution, I can't produce examples of work performed in that context. I have, however, worked on historic international negotiations and on a number of treaties and international conventions, on EU regulations and directives, political speeches and statements, and attended many international conferences and high-level meetings.

In a private capacity, I have translated material for several documentary films and even done a couple of voice-overs. I have translated quite difficult programme material for exhibitions and artistic events as well as texts relating to spirituality (Advaita Vedanta).