On the Spot with Barbara Winston

What was your first job?

I was a comptometer operator for Otis Lifts in Kirkby, Liverpool.

If not in your current job what would you like to do?

I would love to have been in the police; they would not take me because I was too short.

What was your worst mistake?

All kinds of personal decisions come to mind but I think the answer is it’s probably yet to be made.

What is your ideal day away from the office?

Driving around the Dales with the top down on my little car.

Name one person you would most like to have dinner with?

If we are talking of the living, then it would be Stephen Fry. If anyone dead or alive, it would be either Oscar Wilde or Elizabeth I. I hate to be bored.

What was your best subject at school?

English literature and history – I love a good story.

What are your hobbies?

I am a bit of a gym freak, its one of the few places I forget about work and it’s a great stress-buster.

What would you do if you won the Lotto?

Probably end up giving large chunks of it to my family.

What is your top-time saving tip?

I would say keep your hair short – if it takes longer to dry than to cook your porridge in the microwave, it’s too long.

What is your favourite time of the day?

I like really early in the morning when the air is fresh and there is no-one around, or twilight when the light is so flattering.

What is your favourite garment?

At the moment, I am madly in love with my pyjamas. I am so tired when I get home it’s a joy to put them on and know my day is finished.

What is the best thing about being in Yorkshire?

There is so much beautiful countryside that is so accessible. I think Yorkshire people don’t realise what a glorious county this is.

What would your epitaph be?

She never gave up.