Norman Clarkson has long had an interest in the Lake District, having served as a member of the Lake District National Park Authority.

Norman was also a Conservative Councillor for Cumbria County Council, representing Gosforth and Ennerdale division. He was the Chairman of the Council between 2012 and 2013.

Norman has lived in Cumbria since 1957. He served in the Household Calvary for 9 years and then worked for Albright and Wilson in Whitehaven. Norman was the Mayor of Copeland 2005-2006.