Judy Bowers, author of The Additive Puzzle

Having left school at sixteen with mediocre exam results, I never thought one day I’d end up writing a book about food additives, and helping people improve their lives with a few minor changes to their diet.

Paul, my husband, and I brought up three children, and as they grew older we missed the buzz of a young family, so we became foster carers. On the way, I worked as a teaching assistant - first in a mainstream school, then in a special needs school - as well as in supported housing for young people and adults with mental health issues. I still co-lead a parent and toddler group at my local Church.

Obviously my work/interests have brought me into contact with lots of children, young people and their parents and carers - often with a diverse range of mood, behaviour and even some health issues - which lead me to my interest in how what we eat affects us.

But I’m not just obsessed with additives! I live in West Sussex with my husband and long-term foster son, and in my spare time I love to paint watercolour and enjoy spending time with friends and family, in particular our wonderful brood of grandchildren.