Peter was born in Liverpool, England. Peter was from a working class background and was awarded a scholarship to attend a private school in Harrogate. He was top of his class in almost all subjects, he was the captain of the Rugby team and was the church organist. This led him to receive another scholarship to attend university in Cambridge, England. He began studying Science and physics and excelled in both of these subjects. He soon changed to study art and film at SLADE Art School.