On The Spot With Anne Batty

What was your first job?

It was in Sheffield’s Castle Market on a broken biscuits stall.

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

I always wanted to be a midwife but wasn’t keen on the nurse training and shift work!

What was your worst mistake?

A wrong choice, rather. The night my mother died I went home with dad and we got back to the hospital too late.

What is your ideal day away from the office?

One someone else plans (as long as a fab lunch and champagne is included!)

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

Trina Brown, my secretarial teacher and inspiration – thank you.

What was your best subject at school?

Mathematics.

What are your hobbies?

My dance partner, John Owen, and I have been dancing for over seven years.

What would you do if you won the Lottery?

All the usual – pay off the mortgage, a holiday, helping out friends anonymously.

What is your favourite item of clothing?

My battered, bits missing, re-glued, smelly dance shoes I always wear.

What is your favourite time of day?

Early morning.

It is great to have a part of the day when my children Lewis and Heather are still asleep to get ahead.

What’s the best thing about Yorkshire?

The people – a table full of friends, a big pot of coffee and a couple of hours to kill.

What would you like your epitaph to be?

She never gave up reaching for the stars, but made sure she enjoyed the journey along the way.