What was your first job?

I was a junior insurance clerk at CIS Manchester earning the princely sum of £16.50 per week.

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

One person isn't enough! I suppose I'd choose a business great such as Richard Branson or Alan Sugar, to see if they are the same as their public profiles portray them. Just to be able to pick their brains over some great food and plenty of wine sounds pretty good to me and would make for an interesting evening.

What are your hobbies?

Cycling, singing (at every available opportunity) and brisk walks on the coast in Anglesey on frosty days.

What's your top time-saving tip?

A good morning routine - get on to auto-pilot and get out of the door!

What is your favourite thing about Bolton and why?

I love Belmont village because as a 16 year-old I went on several geography field trips there and had a really fantastic time.

Which past event has most influenced your life and why?

I can answer this without hesitation from the heart . . . My son suffered a brain haemorrhage when he was just 12 years old. This event shook me and the rest of the family to the core and made me re-evaluate my life. I appreciate so much now that I used to take for granted.

What is the one piece of advice you have passed on to your children?

Do one thing each day which makes you happy.

How would you describe yourself in a personal ad?

Shrek seeks Princess Fiona for romantic dinners and country walks. GSOH essential.

What does your typical working day involve?

No such thing as a typical day as my work is so varied. Generally, I arrive at the office at 8am and clear emails before attending meetings which are usually a mix of internal meetings and with customers and contacts. I will then visit our developments and am constantly looking for new opportunities and markets for the Charles Topham brand.