On the Spot with Paul Moorhead

Working in a pet shop when I was doing my A-levels.

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

I began my career in the textiles industry and was fascinated by the way it worked. I look back on that time fondly and can imagine how I might have stayed there.

What was your worst mistake?

I ran a business where I allowed myself to rely too much on one large customer. When he took his business abroad it was very damaging.

What's you ideal day away from the office?

A day at Thirsk Races. I know that part of the world quite well and it's a lovely little course.

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

Prince Philip. He's followed the Queen around the world and seen all sorts of fascinating things. He seems to have a caustic wit, which I quite like.

What was your best subject at school?

English. I always found I was able to express myself quite well on paper, to the point where I even considered becoming a journalist for a while.

What are your hobbies?

As soon as we moved into our present house DIY took over and there's the garden too. I also like walking and I love horse racing.

What would you do if you won the Lotto?

I have made a conscious decision to stop playing the lottery in the belief that I am far more likely to earn it than win it. As a business person you have to maintain that belief in your ability to make a success of things.

What's your favourite item of clothing?

My green Barbour jacket. It's developed that patina that I think makes them ideal for town and country.

What's your favourite time of day?

About 6.30pm – that's about the time I leave the office.

What's the best thing about Yorkshire?

I think it's the people. They're down to earth, no nonsense and they call a spade a spade.

What would you like your epitaph to be?

He was a nice guy who you could trust.

Paul Moorhead is a licensed insolvency practitioner and the head of Moorhead Savage in Rotherham.