Bob worked in Retail Finance for over 30 years, 1970 – 2005. Whilst pursuing his interest in Geology during a field trip to Dorset with Sheffield University’s continuing education division, he met Wendy. They found that they shared many interests including Archaeology and Walking.

During Bob’s career in retail finance he faced several challenges and changes including being made redundant. Throughout his career ‘ups and downs’ his friend Wendy was an enormous support to him. In August 2005, when Bob was made redundant for the second time, he immediately signed up to join her on a community archaeological dig at Staveley Hall in Staveley Derbyshire. Digging in a trench in the cellar of the demolished part of the hall, discovering high status plates that became the type pottery for that period.