Was born in Leicester during the Second World War.  He was educated at St John’s Junior School, Avenue Road and Wyggeston Boys Grammar School.

 

He joined his father’s retail firm when he was 21 after serving a hosiery apprenticeship with Newby Groves & Meakin.

 

He has lived and worked in Leicester all his life, living in Knighton and Evington.  He is married to Jill, a former state registered nurse, and they have one son, and one daughter.

 

In 1974 Councillor Allen was elected to serve as Chairman of the Leicester Branch of the National Market Traders Federation. 

 

In 1978 he served as the Chairman for East Leicester Conservative Association and was elected to the Council in 1983-1995. He was re-elected 1996, and 1999 to serve the Thurncourt Ward. Councillor Allen has served on two junior school governing bodies, Thurnby Lodge and Willowbrook

 

With sporting interests and his playing of Rugby for Westleigh Rugby Football Club and Cricket for Old Wyggestonians meant his charity for the year was sport related. Called the Spirit of Sport Leicester Citizens young and old were able to submit cases for sports equipment. All ages and all abilities were able to benefit

 

Other Interests are Ornithology, Gardening, Freemasonry (being a Past Master of Commercial Lodge in Leicester) and Governor at Trinity Hospital and North Memorial Homes.