He lives in the Loxley area of Sheffield and enjoys playing squash and badminton. When he has the time, he can be found jogging around the picturesque Dam Flask reservoir.

Are you a cook?
You would think so by my appearance, but alas I only cook when absolutely necessary! I do take a keen interest in ingredients though. For health reasons, I have to monitor my sugar intake and unfortunately, that means I now have to avoid more flamboyant dishes.

Any cooking tips?
Don't eat anything I've cooked if you can avoid it!

What's your favourite dish?
Curry, curry and more curry, although these days I tend to eat more pasta and chicken.

And a drink to go with it?
If we are talking curry, there's no better accompaniment than a long, cool glass of Stella Artois. I don't mind slurping wine with other dishes though!

Your favourite restaurant in the Sheffield area?
Flouch Balti House for a curry with excellent service, or for an Italian with a friendly, cheerful atmosphere, I don't think you can beat Sette Colli in Hillsborough.

And pub?
I very rarely get as far as the pub, but on odd occasions I do, I usually venture to the Wisewood Inn on Loxley Road, or The Courtyard at Wickersley in Rotherham if I am out with my colleagues.

What's the worst meal you have ever had?
A plate of sardines that hadn't been prepared right – if you know what I mean!

And the best?
Christmas dinner cooked by my mother with plenty of seconds… or was it the champagne breakfast I had in New York, overlooking Ellis Island? (Sorry Mum!)

Your favourite TV cook?
Working in Rotherham – the home of the Ministry of Food – I'd have to say Jamie Oliver. The guy has so much energy and enthusiasm he pulls you into his campaigns. You may not fully embrace his techniques, but you have to admire him for having a go. I think it is easy to be an armchair critic.

And your opinion of Sheffield as a place to eat out?
It strikes me that you have to move out of the city centre to find a really good restaurant.

Most of the places to eat in the heart of the city centre are busy and far too bar-orientated.

There is not as much emphasis placed on good service.
Head out into the suburbs and you can find plenty of restaurants delivering quality food at reasonable prices, in a more relaxed environment. Personally, this is what I enjoy.

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