On the Spot with Claire Benson

I worked as a waitress when I was 14 in the Old Swan in Gargrave every Saturday and Sunday.

If you weren't in your current positions what would you be doing?

I would like to think I could be a body double for Angelina Jolie or Penelope Cruz. On a more serious note, hairdressing is my real love in life and I couldn't even imagine doing anything else. It is all I have ever wanted to do.

What was your worst mistake?

Not working as hard as I could have done at school.

What's your ideal day away from the office?

For me, it's all about relaxation as I spend every day on my feet in the salon, so my ideal day would be spent pottering around in my lovely garden. I grow my own fruit and vegetables and love to make jams and chutney so that is what I would spend my time doing.

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

My gran when she was younger. She's 103 this year and has always been my inspiration.

What was your best subject at school?

Art – this is where my creativity, imagination and artistic flair began.

What are your hobbies?

Gardening, reading, cooking, socialising and holidays.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

Laugh out loud and keel over before booking a holiday to South America for the entire family.

What's your top time saving tip?

Prior preparation, because planning prevents poor performance. I apply this to both my work and the kitchen.

What's your favourite item of clothing?

I would have to pick two – my pyjamas and my wellies. Not together, of course.

What's your favourite time of the day?

My evenings are very precious because I work such long hours in the salon and it is non-stop. My favourite time of the day is definitely bedtime because like Sleeping Beauty, I love my sleep.

What would your epitaph be?

Do not disturb….

Claire Benson is a director and co-owner of hair salon The Benson Hefti Partnership, based in Guiseley.