He took his degree at Newcastle University, before completing the Legal Practice Course at the York College of Law. Following this, Matthew undertook at two-year training contract at Raleys in Barnsley, where he trained in many aspects of the law, including employment, conveyancing, personal injury and clinical negligence. 

Matthew is a keen reader, but spends most of his free time playing the guitar and piano and fitting in a round of golf when he has the opportunity.