On The Spot With Martin Bown

What was your first job?

Morning paperboy.

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

I’d have really enjoyed doing something that involved working outdoors, or sport – or both!

What was your worst mistake?

There have been many, but maybe not trying hard enough when I knew a Stoke City scout was watching me play a game of school football, in the days when they were in the old First Division.

What’s your ideal day away from the office?

A day out with my family.

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

John Peel. I can hardly put into words the influence he had on me, and what music I listened to because of him.

What was your best subject at school?

Maths.

What are your hobbies?

Enjoying food, wine and real ale. It doesn’t have to be fine dining, but it does have to be tasty! I go running to work off all the calories. I also listen to all sorts of music – sometimes my wife describes my tastes as “eclectic”, other times as “weird”. I take either as a compliment!

What would you do if you won the Lottery?

After all the sensible things like making sure our family is debt free, I’d like to relax by the pool at my Tuscan villa! Seriously, I’d want to be more active in helping the charities close to my heart.

What’s your favourite item of clothing?

My running shoes.

What’s your favourite time of day?

First thing in the morning.

What’s the best thing about Yorkshire?

The people – down to earth, to the point, and very friendly.

What would you like your epitaph to be?

He was a great friend, the best dad, a perfect husband.