Margaret was born in Smithies and at the age of 10 she moved to Royston where she lived for 12 years. She then moved back into Barnsley town which to her and her extended family has always been 'home'. On leaving school Margaret studied Business Skills at Barnsley College of Technology. Later in life she re-entered education on a part-time basis gaining an HNC in Information Technology at Doncaster College and a Cert Ed, BA (Education and Training) and MA Moderisation of Local Government from the University of Huddersfield.

Whilst working full time as Office Manager for a UK fuel company, Margaret was a voluntary youth worker (for 22 years). She started her voluntary work with the Girl Guide Association but moved to work with Barnsley Boys Club in order that her sons could partake of the wider range of activities available. Her teaching career started in 1988 when she joined Barnsley MBC as a Business Administration instructor; this led to a role within the Trade Union as full time Convenor for UNISON.

Margaret has been an active trade union and Labour Party member for over 20 years. She has held office in both organisations and has represented her members and colleagues at conferences and forums across the country.

As a caring and concerned family person Margaret has a commitment to Barnsley and its communities - she is passionate about the rights of vulnerable people especially the young, the old and minority groups. And when time allows a good book or an amusing film is her way of relaxing and unwinding.