I was born in 1954 in Grimsby, educated mostly in Bedford, and went from there to University College, Oxford to read philosophy, politics and economics.

After graduating in 1976, I took a master's degree in Politics, which was followed by a lectureship at University College. I taught for four years at Brunel University before returning to Oxford to a lectureship at Christ Church.

I first went into politics in 1985 when I was elected to Oxfordshire County Council, gaining a valuable experience in how politics affects people directly as a local councillor. In 1990 I became leader of the Labour group, a position I served in until 1996.

I was first elected to parliament in 1997, and have proudly represented Warwick & Leamington since then.

I sat on the Treasury Select Committee from 2000 to 2005. From 2005 to 2008 I served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary in the Department of Work and Pensions.

Leamington Office

Andy Marshall, Personal Assistant

My duties are to manage the office and James' diary, liaising with the Westminster office, and overseeing all communication with constituents.

I live in Leamington and have worked for James since 1997. Previously I was an early years teacher in London and Coventry. I was equal opportunities officer for Coventry division of the National Union of Teachers, and represented Leamington Clarendon division on Warwickshire County Council from 1993-2005.

My hobbies include travel, reading and learning Spanish.

Sue Griffith, Senior Caseworker

I provide information and assistance to constituents on a range of matters including housing, healthcare, and financial issues. I assist James with all the correspondence relating to helping constituents with problems.

I have lived in Leamington Spa most of my life and now live in Warwick. I spent many years working in several local government departments and have worked for James since 1998. I have always worked in Customer Services and I like dealing with people and helping to solve their problems.

I am divorced and have 2 grown up children. My hobbies are gardening, films, music, reading and dining out with friends or family.

Caroline Judd, Administrative Assistant

I assist in the office with telephone queries and typing correspondence.

I joined the team here in Leamington in 2005. Previously I was with Social Services Disabilities Team and before that I was with East Midlands Electricity.

I am married and have a daughter, and my other interests are sewing, line dancing and walking in the country with my German Shepherd dog.

Westminster Office

Aidan Harris, Political Researcher

I assist James in all aspects of his work in the House of Commons. This includes background research on policy issues, co-ordinating visits to Parliament and finding the answers to policy queries from constituents.

Since completing my studies I have lived in London, although I have also lived and worked overseas for number of years. Before working in James' Westminster office, I worked for the IPPR think tank and have also worked in a constituency office as a caseworker.

My interests include photography, travel - particularly South and East Asia - music and cycling.