James has always had the interests of designing and working with wood. In 1988, he invented a new watercraft, a catamaran windsurfer. He assisted with the development of 'Bi Planche' to full production which was later followed by the addition of a hydrofoil version. This was awarded the title of 'Millennium Product' in 2000.
Following his fascination with Africa and its wildlife, James went to Kenya on a two-month photographic expedition with the Kenyan Wildlife Service where he met his wife, Kirsten
After his return, James refined his skills by training in fine furniture with one of Britain's top designer-makers, David Savage, at his workshops in North Devon. This refined his designing and developed his cabinet-making skills to a professional level. During his time with David, James won an award in a prestigious national furniture making competition. In 2002, James was accepted as a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen.
James has now set up his own workshop in North Dorset where he designs and hand-makes contemporary fine furniture to individual commission.
It is here that emphasis is placed on quality of workmanship in order to produce a beautiful, functional piece tailored to the client's individual requirements which will be treasured for generations.
The combination of African wildlife and working with wood led James to design and hand-make quality rocking rhinos, hippos and elephants under the name of 'Rocking Rhinos'.
These are appealing and make for a very individual heirloom that children of all ages will delight in for years to come. He has also linked his work with a charity to help conserve elephants and rhinos in East Africa.
James and Kirsten returned to Kenya in 2000 to be married.