Richard grew up in Belsay and attended school in Ponteland, before qualifying in 2008 at the University of Liverpool. He then spent seven years working in the Yorkshire Dales as a mixed practitioner, a calving season in New Zealand, and returned to Northumberland in 2016. He currently enjoys farm and small animal work, and has a Post Graduate Certificate in Advanced Small Animal Surgery.

Richard is a member of the British Cattle Veterinary Association, the British Small Animal Veterinary Association, a BVD Accredited Advisor and a BCVA accredited Johnes Veterinary Advisor. Outside of work, interests include skiing, hiking, and home brewing.