On The Spot With Martin Collingwood

What was your first job?

Bottle man at a workingmen’s club in Hull, which is now a nightclub known as ‘The Welly’.

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

A counsellor or mediator.

I am an accredited mediator and have done various counselling qualifications over the years.

I like to see people resolve disputes amicably.

What was your worst mistake?

Dyeing my hair blond – very crudely – for a dare when I was a rebellious teenager.

It got me sent home from school until the dye grew out.

What would be your ideal day away from the office?

Spending time with my two granddaughters; they are such a tonic.

Name the one person you would most like to have dinner with.

Tony Benn – a sage politician and a real elder statesman.

What was your best subject at school?

Economics, although school gave me a lifelong love of history, particularly ancient history.

What are your hobbies?

I like going to the gym and the cinema.

What would you do if you won the Lotto?

Give it to my children and grandchildren.

What is your top time-saving tip?

Plan ahead – so that you can avoid making separate trips to do things – and do them in progression.

What is your favourite time of the day?

There are two for me: early in the morning or late at night before things have started and when they have ended – peace.

What is the best thing about being in Yorkshire?

The directness and honesty of people – a spade really is a spade.

What would your epitaph be?

Ever willing.