He served as Alderman for the Ward of Aldersgate having previously been its representative in the City since his election as a Common Councilman in 1987.

Having qualified as a chartered accountant in 1982, Anstee worked for a number of clearing banks before becoming a partner in Arthur Andersen.

In 2010, he received a Doctor of Science honoris causa from City University London.

Uniquely in modern times, he refused any national honour upon his retirement as Lord Mayor.

They have three daughters (born March 1985, July 1987 and January 1993), who attended the City of London School for Girls.