CARL Henderson has experienced both sides of the cricketing spectrum, despite spending very little time at the crease.

As a Yorkshire County Cricket Club follower, the 39-year-old was just one of thousands packed into Headingley hoping to see England break Australia's unrelenting Ashes stranglehold throughout the 1990s.

Those shackles may now be broken, as the all-conquering Australia's adjust to life in the middle-order of international cricket, but the painful memories still remain.

However, for those lows, there have been many highs, most notably when Yorkshire won the last of their record 30 County Championships at North Marine Road, Scarborough, in 2001.

Under those leaden skies, as Glamorgan's Simon Jones hoisted a delivery from former White Rose bowler, and now Australia coach, Darren Lehmann, into the waiting hands of captain David Byas, the town's noisy Peasholm Park Naval Warfare show was not the only thing making its presence felt.

Sport, particularly cricket, plays a big role in Carl's life, acting as a release valve from the everyday pressures of running his business.

Hendersons Carpet and Flooring, based in Stokesley, North Yorkshire, is now ten-years-old, and moved from Guisborough two years ago to continue its expansion.

The firm employs three members of staff and a number of sub-contractors, and Carl, who is married to Alice, says the switch has paid rich dividends.

He said: “The last few years have certainly been challenging, but we’re really pleased we took the plunge and relocated when we did because it has helped business.

“It has opened up new areas for us, and although Guisborough is only eight miles away, it might as well be as far away as the moon, simply because of the new people and business we have seen.

“We aim to deliver a consistent and personal service by time-served reliable workmen, and Stokesley is a great location for us.”

It's no surprise the former pupil of Huntcliff School, Saltburn, east Cleveland, is flourishing.

His family is entrenched in the business, with a reputation spanning 50 years for interior and flooring work.

His grandfather and uncle set up Henderson Bros in the late 1950’s, which is now run by Carl’s father and brother, while he looks after the carpet and flooring division.

With such an unrelenting focus, time away from the office is key, and that's where cricket comes in.

He said: “I just enjoy watching it, even if some of the games were when England were getting battered by the Aussies at Headingley.

“I really like watching Yorkshire, and Sir Geoffrey Boycott is a favourite too.

“He is a legend of the game from his time at the county and with England, and Scarborough is always a good place to go and watch Yorkshire.

“The championship win in 2001 was fantastic, and they are doing well again this year, although they are doing their best to give the title to Durham.

“But it's so relaxing, you're working a lot of hours and just being able to turn off for a few hours is great.”

Favourite North-East building and why? I really like Victorian design and architecture and having grown up and lived in Saltburn, Saltburn Pier is my favourite iconic structure in the North East.

What was your first job and how much did you get paid? My first job was delivering papers and washing cars while I was still at school.

But after I left school at 16, I joined my dad working on flooring contracts in the South.

We travelled in his van, towing our caravan and spent two weeks working before coming home for a weekend. Pay was about £50 per week.

That was a lot to me then.

What is the worst job you've had? I've enjoyed the jobs I've had so can't put my finger on a bad one.

What would you cook for me if I came around for dinner? After going on a cookery course a few years ago in Sorrento, I'd try an Italian pasta dish followed by Tiramisu.

Since going to Italy and trying a lot of authentic food and wine.

What would your superpower be? I'm not good with heights so it wouldn't be flying. It would be good to be telepathic. My wife would appreciate it.

Name four people, dead or alive, who would be at your perfect dinner party. John Wayne; I love Western films. Elvis Presley; I've been a fan since a small boy and he would provide good entertainment and stories. Sir Geoffrey Boycott; I'm a big cricket fan and he has an opinion on everything so he would keep the conversation flowing. Alex Pollizzi; she is a strong business woman who doesn't take any flannel.

Most expensive thing you've bought - other than car or house? My wife's engagement ring, diamonds and a pink sapphire. I couldn't possibly tell you how much it cost though, she doesn't know.

Who is the best person to follow on Twitter and why? I don't tweet yet so I'll have to get back to you when I start.

Favourite book? I'm not a big reader, but recently enjoyed Stephen Gerrard's autobiography.

When did you last cry? At my Nana's funeral. She sadly died at the end of 2011, a few weeks after the birth of my son.

What is your greatest achievement? I've now completed two coast-to-coast rides and have the third to do at the end of August to raise money for charity.

What's the best piece of advice in business you've ever been given? To make sure that you really listen to and understand what your customer wants.

Favourite animal and why? Dogs. we have a German short-haired pointer called Fern. Great companionship, faithfulness and loyalty.

Most famous person on your mobile phone? No celebrities. Local businessman, builder and restaurateur Graham Howard is probably the most well-known.

What was the last band you saw live? Stereophonics

Describe your perfect night in. Good curry from the local takeaway, Black Sheep Ale and a good cricket match on the TV.

In another life I would be... A professional cricketer or footballer.

Who would play you in a film of your life? I put this to my friends and Patrick Stewart came back as the most popular answer. I'd like it to be Clint Eastwood.

What irritates you? Quite a few things, the worst being middle lane hoggers on the motorway.

What's your secret talent? Until I had my son Ted, who'll be two-years-old in November, I never knew I could entertain a small child successfully.