After studying at the University of York from 1977 to 1980, Newman worked at the Liverpool Echo. Between 1981 and 1983, she lived in Italy and France to learn the languages, teaching English as a private tutor.
Following her studies at the University of York from 1977 to 1980, Newman began working for the Liverpool Echo. During the years 1981 to 1983, she lived in Italy and France to enhance her language skills, teaching English privately as a tutor.