Initially a carpenter by profession, John Pearce-Haydon entered the International Training College from Exeter Temple corps in 1960. Following 16 years as a corps officer in the UK territory he became Divisional Youth Secretary in the North Scotland division then Divisional Secretary in the Manchester division.

In 1986 the Colonel was appointed Divisional Commander to the Northern division, then in 1994 to the Southern division.

The Colonel and his wife Jean have three daughters - Jeanette, Judith and Jill, and six grandchildren. He is a brass band enthusiast but also admits to enjoying classical music (particularly opera), photography, carpentry and reading.