I am seriously looking for help/ advice for my illustrations - would anybody like to give me suggestions as to how to get work/ find agents?

Question

I am coming from a very different background to most, as I started off my working career in Design and Technology, and then as a teacher - although my studies are in Fine Art and Ceramics. I am aware that Illustration is a very difficult and competitive area, but I think I have developed my own style and am ready to put in the hard yards. I have already become proficient at photography through taking photos at many festivals through my work as a writer/ reviewer - showing I can get results.  Any advice welcome!