On the Spot with Karen Nixon

What was your first job?

A Saturday job on a fruit and veg stall in my home town of Darlington. That was when I realised my future career wouldn't lie in doing anything that involved mental arithmetic.

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

Photographing wildlife in Africa, I think. At least for a while.

What was your worst mistake?

I'm not sure – I've made a few though. The trick is to learn from them.

What's your ideal day away from the office?

A lie-in, a lazy morning and then spending time with the people I love.

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

Michael Palin – I'd love to hear his travelling tales and I know he'd make me laugh.

What was your best subject at school?

English – I love writing.

What are your hobbies?

Photography, reading and learning how to make jewellery.

What would you do if you won the Lotto?

Celebrate in style with family and friends and take a long holiday. Then I'd come back down to earth, plan how best to invest the rest and support people who need a helping hand.

What's your top time-saving tip?

Plan.

What's your favourite item of clothing?

Shoes – and I couldn't pick just one pair.

What's your favourite time of day?

Sunrise – although I don't see it that often. And warm summer evenings sitting outside in good company, drinking wine and putting the world to rights.

What's the best thing about Yorkshire?

The down-to-earth, friendly people and the combination of city life and lovely countryside.

What would you like to be your epitaph?

She made a difference.