My name is Simon Dean Parkin.
I was born in Mansfield in 1973, to Sheila and Martin.
My parents are long since divorced, and I don't see my father.

I'm gay, and out to everyone, and don't see any point in living in the closet :-)

I currently live in Derby, with my boyfriend Michael.
We met through Gaydar in January 2000, and got a house together in February 2001.

There are another couple of 'males' that I live with... My 2 little babies Gizmo & Wikkit, who I couldn't live without.

I have quite a few health problems, mainly related to my muscles, so I spend the majority of my time at home, keeping myself busy with web coding most days.

I'm often asked what "SIDEPA" means, and how to pronounce it?
SIDEPA stands for SImon DEan PArkin (my name!). It's pronounced "SidePar". It is NOT Side PA, meaning a Side Prince Albert!!! I don't have any piercings, lol

I didn't work for a few years, due to various muscles problems. It doesn't prevent me from doing most things, as long as I get plenty of rest (meaning a decent nights sleep).

I currently work for myself as a Web Designer, and all-round computer/gadget guru... as that's how all my friends, family, & neighbours seem to think of me.
However, I am also interested in anything to do with computers, gadgets, technology, and web code, and have some qualifications in that field.

Over the years I've worked a Branch Manager for a large chain of Insurance Brokers, and as an IT / Network Support guy for a Disability Charity.

My interests are varied.
They include computers, which is my passion. I love the technical stuff, building them, repairing them, and there's nothing I enjoy more than wiping everything off & re-installing it all every so often - keeps your system healthy, don't you know :-)

I'm was trying to get into model rocketry, and had a perfect launch site in mind when I lived in Nottingham, but since moving to Derby, I have yet to find a suitable location.

I'm a big Sci-Fi fan. I'll watch any Sci-Fi, but Star Trek, Star Gate and Babylon 5 are my favourites.
Having said that, l'lI watch virtually anything on TV, anything to relieve the boredom.
Anything except sport that is. I can't stand sport, especially football. I really don't understand what all the fuss is about.

I don't really have many friends. Most seem to turn out as completely selfish, treating me like dirt or stabbing me in the back, until I refuse to put up with it anymore, and end the friendship. Needless to say I have ended up with very few friends.
I have met a few decent guys over the years & one in particular has proved to be a geniune friend, who is always there for me when I need him (thanks Glynn )

Myself & Michael would love to meet some guys, maybe another couple, just for friendship!. We've tried, and even invited some round for dinner, but can't say that any strong, long lasting friendships came out of it. We'll keep trying!