In between all this I had 18 months 'sabbatical', from around 2004 to 2006, as Creative Director at Oakbase in Chester. A great time was had by all as I set about recruiting for the creative department and helping to grow the company's billings to over £12m from £9m. Clients included Bathstore, TJHughes, BonmarchĂ©, McInerney Homes, Bunzl Lockhart and even a serving of McDonalds for good measure.