Favourite North-East building and why?

Durham Cathedral. There are links to this cathedral are in my family blood. My father grew up in the Cathedral College when my grandfather was Suffragan Bishop of Durham, my son went to the Choristers’ School. My children and I are all graduates of Durham University and a most special day was when my daughter was married in the Cathedral.

What was your first job and how much did you get paid?

Scrubbing out vats in a brewery for £15 a day.

What is the worst job you’ve had?

In my first real job in the Army I had to arrest illegal immigrants from China trying to get into Hong Kong. These were pitiful people who we had to hand back to China.

What would you cook for me if I came around for dinner?

Anything with Weardale lamb.

What would your superpower be?

To travel at the speed of light as I waste so much time travelling between meetings.

Name four people, dead or alive, who would be at your perfect dinner party.

General Sir John Moore, founder of the Light Division and my ancestor; Nelson Mandela; Lord Armstrong; and St Hilda, an abbess in Whitby whose counsel was widely sought by Kings.

Most expensive thing you’ve bought – other than car or house – and how much?

My father’s 80th birthday present five years ago. I asked what he would like that would be special. As a result the two of us toured the chateaux where Armagnac is produced.We had three memorable and poignant days

Who is the best person to follow on Twitter and why?

Our President, John McCabe. He is observant and pithy.

Favourite book?

High Endeavours by Miles Clarke

When did you last cry and why?

A few weeks ago when I had a reunion with a number of soldiers I served with in Northern Ireland on an incredibly tough tour. People didn’t know about PTSD back then, it was 40 years ago. Our meeting brought so much back but it was very cathartic.

What is your greatest achievement?

Positively motivating others

What’s the best piece of advice in business you’ve ever been given?

Be very cautious of people who say you can trust them. Genuinely trustworthy people never say that.

Favourite animal and why.

Penguin because it has so many human traits and is capable of thriving in the most extreme conditions.

Most famous person on your mobile phone.

Steve Cram.

What was the last band you saw live?

Ed Sheeran.

Your perfect night in.

A night with all of my family members including my grandson.

In another life I would be...

Exactly who I am now.

Who would play you in a film of your life?

Hopefully someone who is from the North-East – a real talent waiting to be discovered.

What irritates you?

People who talk the North-East down.

What’s your secret talent?

Offshore sailing.