Victoria recalls her remarkable journey

ARTIST, author, model, broadcaster, lecturer, marketing manager, management consultant and aid advisor for the New Zealand and Malaysian government - Dudley-born Victoria Bowater-Wright really has crammed a lot into her life.

Victoria admits she has led a glamorous life, mingling with the likes of the Kings of Denmark and Malaysia and going out with 60s popstar Adam Faith - not bad for a former Holly Hall School pupil.

When she looks back, the former Dudley and Stourbridge College lecturer concedes she has packed more than enough into one lifetime.

Victoria lived in New Zealand for 12 years and was invited to represent the country's government as a consultant for Tonga.

She also served on age and disability committees at the United Nations after an invite from the New Zealand government.

Though she led a jet-setting five-star lifestyle alongside the world's royalty and politicians, Victoria always had in her mind to return home, and she did so 20 years ago.

These days she is quite happy to live in her cottage in Plantation Lane, Himley, giving talks on her life and passing on her knowledge as a management consultant.

She has also had four books published, including her memories of her times in New Zealand and Malaysia, with her latest offering The Asian Conference' already written.

Victoria said: "It's been a glamorous life. I lived in a suite at the top of the Hilton Hotel in Kuala Lumpur for 14 months when I was working on a book.

"I've met the King of Denmark and I was guest of honour when I met the King of Malaysia.

"The Malaysian people were really wonderful.

"But I wanted to move back to England. I had done too much travelling, I was tired of living out of a suitcase and living in hotels.

"I have packed a lot in, I've experienced a lot in life. I always think what can I do next?' As long as I can do what I want to do I'm happy."