Alexander was probably a native of Stainsby, Lincolnshire, and had two brothers, William and Gilbert, who held land there.
[4] While bishop, Alexander urged the people in his diocese to receive Communion three times a year.
[1] Alexander served Henry III of England as a diplomat, undertaking many missions to Rome and France on behalf of the king.
He also negotiated with envoys for Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor at Antwerp and spent time in Wales trying to renew truces.
In 1234 the bishop was accused of supporting Richard Marshall's rebellion, but he cleared his name before the court.