On The Spot With Deborah Somerset-Malia

What was your first job?

Saturday girl at Mattocks Butchers in Sheffield, aged 15.

If you weren’t in your current position, what would you be doing?

A dog trainer, educational or forensic psychologist.

What was your worst mistake?

Listening to rubbish from others and allowing it to influence me.

What’s your ideal day away from the office?

A lie-in, followed by lovely cooked breakfast in the country. Then a stroll, looking in the independent shops for an unusual piece of jewellery. Then a massage, reflexology or facial. Early dinner, followed by a film or theatre.

Name one person you would like to have dinner with and why?

Morrissey. He is a brilliant lyricist, has real charisma and continues to bang his own individual drum.

What was your best subject at school?

Sociology and German.

What are your hobbies?

Running, swimming, cycling, reading, the theatre, dancing, loud music, eating.

What would you do if you won the Lottery?

Buy a newer car, pay outright for my MA, buy a holiday home. Move to somewhere a little more rural, donate to charity and, of course, look after family.

What’s your favourite item of clothing?

Numerous pieces of jewellery or Gabor black leather boots.

What’s your favourite time of day?

Definitely morning.

What’s the best thing about Yorkshire?

People – honest, hardworking, no-nonsense.

What would you like your epitaph to be?

She did good!