On the Spot

Waitressing in a restaurant during holidays from school.

If you weren’t in your present post what would you be doing?

I would probably have trained as a doctor. I admire the dedication of our medical profession and the differences they can make to the lives of individuals.

What was your worst mistake?

Not starting Silk Family Law earlier. I know that family law services are best provided within a niche specialist practice which is client-focused and dedicated to the delivery of excellence.

What’s your ideal day away from the office?

I have a few. Walking in the Yorkshire Dales (between Gunnerside and Muker) with our dogs; watching our children playing in school sports matches; or reading the papers in front of a huge log fire.

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

Frank Gardner, the BBC Security Correspondent. He is intelligent and brave. He returned to his demanding job after being shot in Iraq and suffering very serious injury.

What was your best subject at school?

English. I loved writing essays. I still have all of my old school exercise books in the attic.

What would you do if you won the Lotto?

Buy a lovely house in the Provence with great views and a shady courtyard.

What’s your top time-saving tip?

Organisation – I make lists each day and establish new (and often changing) priorities.

What’s the best thing about Yorkshire?

So many – the people, countryside, views, shopping, restaurants and great access to London and Edinburgh.

What would you like to be your epitaph?

I have always liked Spike Milligan’s “I told you I was ill”.