He became particularly interested in the inability of many executives to successfully put their point across to large audiences due to speech nerves. Now he describes himself as one of only a handful of people in the world capable of eliminating 'irrational' fears after a simple conversation over the telephone.

The economic downturn has seen a increased demand for John's services as he is enlisted to help 'destress' financial directors as they prepare to give bad news to shareholders. On any day he can be called upon to use Thought Field Therapy to help get rid of everything from the fear of spiders to the public speaking fears of a best man.

John and his wife, Lisa, who is also trained in TFT, have just opened their own practice at the Wellforce Clinic, 28 Wilkinson Street, Sheffield S10 2GB. See www.johnmcl.co.uk or call 0845 838 8467.

Sheffield Steelers

I remember well my first foray in to the Sheffield Arena to watch a game of ice hockey. 'Why not?' I thought.

Being a complete novice, I remember being somewhat surprised at how many cars were there outside the Arena. I had no idea how popular the game was. Inside was electric, an incredible atmosphere. The noise, the singing, all the families together, and this was before the game started!

I was hooked and now some ten years on, I still love it. The main difference now is that we now have a family of our own. Already looking forward to Boxing Day, Steelers v Panthers. It's an institution.

Lyceum Theatre

I have always been fascinated by the stage. When you can connect with a person on the stage, whether it being a presentation or a play, those who can relax and engage you never fail to stay in the mind.

This interest, coupled with my years working with corporate executives, led me to launch SpeechNerves.com to help people with a fear of making a speech or performance.

I have heard it said that it is alright for actors as they are professionals. Whilst this is true, one only has to recall the term stage fright!

The Lyceum is a truly beautiful building, which adds to the ambience of any performance.

Couple this with the excellent programme of events and I believe it is an absolute jewel in Sheffield's crown.

Rejuvenation

So from the old to the new. I have been absolutely amazed at Sheffield regeneration over the last ten to 15 years. Vibrancy emanates out of almost all aspects of the city centre, giving it a cosmopolitan feel to rival any other city in England. However it does play havoc with my SatNav!!

Leopold Square

On the subject of regeneration, I simply adore the ambience and style of Leopold Square. Previously an almost unknown are to me, the transformation has included some excellent restaurants and the conversion of the old technical college into a wonderful and charming hotel.

I recently stayed there in the headmaster's study, which is converted into a bedroom. What I found quite incredible is the feeling that it gives you.

At any moment you would not be surprised to see students going from class to class or a few mortar boards and cloaks in the hallways!

The pictorial references are also wonderful and cast you back to another time in Sheffield's proud history

Valley Centertainment, Attercliffe

This is really a family favourite. Both my son and daughter adore nothing more than a trip here (especially if I let them go in Toys R Us first), whether it be bowling and a cinema, or a family meal together.

I have been delighted at the new restaurant additions, in particular Belle Italia and Prezzo, which allow me to indulge my passion for Italian food.

Cineworld also seems to have captured the essence of what you need at a cinema. Rather than dashing in just before the film starts and then dashing out at the end, the several levels and different offerings now make it a complete evening at the flicks.

Peace Gardens

It's a wonderfully tranquil site. Whilst recently on business in the city centre, I had an hour between clients and took myself here for a relaxing walk. I am often amazed at the stress we all place on ourselves, whether it's lunch at the desk, taking work home, or school runs/work/housework.

Stress is one of the biggest contributors to poor health in this country and yet we British are always searching to be busy. We never seem to be content to just be.

I know of executives who start their day in the small hours to exercise, then go to a breakfast club meeting and then to work.

Lunch is taken on the hoof (whatever's on the trolley), they work until late and, as the mountain keeps getting higher, they drive to an evening club and finally get home at around 10pm in time to get a little sleep and start all over again.

We must make time for ourselves. Even just 10 minutes a day to sit and watch and reflect can help calm a person. Much of my work is dealing with stress, whether it be general anxiety or a more specific fear.

If you work in the city centre, make time to visit the Peace Gardens area. It could be just what the doctor ordered.



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