During his early years the author taught engineering subjects to mature students at a technical college in the Midlands of England. In recent years he has lectured to undergraduates on the subject of vehicle body design and crash test procedures. He has participated in the writing of international automotive engineering standards and was responsible for producing the first draft of a definitive low speed crash test standard for worldwide use. He has produced several technical articles for trade magazines and newspapers.
He began writing for pleasure some ten years ago by recording his adventures in Nigeria with The Up-Country Man. His other, as yet, unpublished works include a collection fictional short stories entitled Tribal Gathering based on his extensive and unique experience gained through living and working in Africa for many years. The author gained a deep understanding of the differences between the African psyche and that of the British expatriates during the turbulent days of the early sixties. This fact alone has enabled him to write confidently about subjects that can so easily be misconstrued.
After 20 years working in Africa, the Far East and the Middle East, Ryeland returned to the UK and occupied various senior engineering posts within the motor and insurance industries before retiring in 2004. He is a widower, has three grown children and likes gardening, writing, classic British motorcycles and good red wine.
