DON'T TELL ME I CAN'T…...become a private detective

Ali Harris took a leap of faith into an exciting new career

- ANNA MATHESON

Chasing down suspects, tense stakeouts, and a car boot full of disguises. That’s what most people imagine when I tell them I’m a private detective. And although it’s not quite the same as it appears on screen, it’s definitely action-packed. I only completed my training two years ago, at the age of 49, and already I can’t imagine ever doing anything else. I love everything about it – the thrill of helping someone, the satisfaction I get solving a case – and, yes, even having to hone my acting skills now and then.

Not long ago, my life was very different. In 2014, I was working as a carer in a home for the elderly, but when my daddied at the age of 98, I found coming to work reminded me of how much I missed him. I decided a career change could be the fresh start I was after.