Martin broke into stardom at an early age starring as "Clyde" in the hit film 'Every Which Way But Loose', alongside legendary actor Clint Eastwood. However, after the film's sequel acting roles dried up, and Martin fled the county to live as a recluse, turning to music as a way of relieving the long and lonely nights.

The bass guitar became an important part of his life until the early 1990's when he was offered the part of Ricky Butcher's wife in EastEnders. He was an instant hit, winning the hearts of the nation, and enjoying several years of success on the small screen and panto circuit. The woman’s institute in Oldham remembers his Dick Whittington to this day.

But for a bass-a-holic, music is always hiding around the corner and the lure of the rhythm became too much, forcing Martin to leave the theatre in 1998 to become an integral part of  Under Cover.

His collection of antique toasters is widely admired.