With my A Levels recently completed at Gloucestershire College in Cheltenham, I am thrilled to begin my career journey with the Ross Gazette as a Reporter.

Out of the office, I enjoy painting ‘pet portraits’ and teaching guitar. When I’m not blogging, I am busy working on my first novel, which I hope to have published in two years.

On a quad bike and in a kayak, I toured Ibiza in June, 2018. The island has given me the travel bug, and I’m now planning my next adventure for 2019.

Having lived in the area for much of my life, some of my favourite places are Cannop Ponds, May Hill and Symonds Yat. I am excited to learn more about the lovely town of Ross-on-Wye, and look forward to meeting many new people along the way.

From September, I hope to begin self-studying my Bachelor's degree in History.

Aliya Shibli