Councillor Cresswell was born in Bulwell in Nottingham, but the family moved to Broxtowe and Derek was educated at the John Player School in Bilborough in Nottingham.

He began his working life as a shipping clerk in the Lace Trade and attended Nottingham College of Arts and Crafts. After completing two years National Service Derek tried various other occupations including a stint as a Building Site Labourer. He then worked in the Printing and Packaging Industry but had to take early retirement due to industrial injury. Derek's Union SOGAY and later GPMU persuaded him to take a more active part in the Labour Party and he joined his Local Branch in Strelley and shortly afterwards became branch secretary.

Strelley branch nominated Derek to stand in the 2000 local elections and he was elected along with Graham Chapman. Due to boundary changes Derek stood in the 2003 Council elections in the New Bilborough Ward and was re-elected as a Labour Councillor. Derek is chair of Governors at William Sharp Comprehensive School and Governor at Melbury Primary School. Derek is on various committees Including Education Appeals and Licensing. He is the present Chair of Licensing. Derek has been a supporter of Notts County FC for a number of years. He still finds time to play for his local pub at dominoes and is chairman of the Bulwell and District Domino League.

The Sheriff's Lady is Derek's Wife Maureen who acts as Derek's unofficial Secretary besides her other position as baby-sitter to their grandchildren on numerous occasions

Councillor Cresswell says;

"The Sheriff of Nottingham is always linked with the legend of Robin Hood and in the tales they are in constant conflict, with Robin victorious in his quest against the Sheriff.

During my term of office I am sure I will be asked about the legend of Robin Hood, but I hope I will manage to persuade people that the modern day Sheriff is a positive ambassador for our vibrant city.

My role will be to focus on tourism and encourage people to visit Nottingham for holidays, conferences or business. Tourist attractions such as Nottingham Castle, the Caves, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem and Wollaton Hall are all within easy reach of the City Centre, not forgetting Nottinghamshire attractions such as the Sherwood Forest Country Park, the supposed haunt of Robin Hood.

Ours is a city steeped in history and legend dating back to medieval times, which we are rightly proud of and I am honoured to be given the opportunity to promote Nottingham and it's prosperous future as a significant and enterprising European city."

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