Born in Hammersmith in London, Neal's parents relocated to Derby when he was just 2 years old. Knowing he wanted to be an actor from a very early age, he spent the early years of his life performing in schools plays at primary School and Secondary school. He then gained a Btec in performing Arts and went on to train at The Manchester School of Theatre at Manchester Metropoltan University. Graduating in 2008. Whilst training he was awarded The Sir John Gielgud Bursary award and was selected as one of the top two students in his year to work alongside the RSC as part of CDS/RSC scheme. Since graduating he was worked with Propeller Theatre Company working with Ed Hall, The National Theatre and The Bristol Old Vic. He has appeared in the HBO series 'A Girl's Guide to Deprevity' and as recurring character PC Terry warren in the ITV soap 'Emmerdale'.