Cringle was educated at Castle Rushen High School and became a farmer and later auctioneer (Central Marts Limited). Married to Mary, two sons. Elected to Arbory Parish Commissioners in 1964 serving through until 1974. First elected a Member of the House of Keys in 1974 as the member for Rushen. He lost his seat in 1986, whilst being Chairman of the Home Affairs Board, but regained it in 1991 continuing as the Member for Rushen until his elevation to the LegCo in 2000 following his election as President of Tynwald. From 1996 to 2000 he was Speaker of the House of Keys.