My Yorkshire: Steve Williams, Banner Jones Solicitors

Steve Williams

Steve Williams is a property solicitor at the Sheffield office of Banner Jones Solicitors

1. Where do you live/where are you from?

I am Sheffield born and bred. Apart from one year at Law College in Guildford, I’ve spent my whole life in Sheffield, and I can honestly say that I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. It’s where my roots are, which keep me grounded, and the people I love such as my family and friends, alongside my interests and hobbies, such as my home football and ice hockey club.

2. What is your favourite place to visit in Yorkshire and why?

Apart from Hillsborough to watch Sheffield Wednesday play, it would be Whitby. I love the historic streets that lead down to the sea, there’s something magical about the whole place! Every time I visit there’s something quirky going on – the last time it was the national Pirate’s convention, the time before it was the national Irish dancing weekend, which both made for great entertainment!

3. What is still on your “to do” list in the region?

Not a lot to be honest, I feel like I’ve been around the block a fair few times so I’ve ticked off most things! Although I’d like to do the activities with my 7 year old that I first did many years ago with my elder boys – riding the Monsal Trail, climbing Mam Tor, adventurous activities and the sort.

4. What is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had in Yorkshire?

My favourite restaurant is The Milestone, at Kelham in Sheffield, they create a fine dining experience without the fine dining price tag, which is great! But slightly further afield, my most memorable will be eating fish and chips at the Magpie in Whitby, an all-time favourite. I was very sad to hear they were struck by two fires recently, and wish them a speedy refurbishment.

5. What is your most Yorkshire trait?

An old saying that my father used to swear by was ‘I’m your best friend, but your worst enemy.’ I guess this rings fairly true for me, too, some may say ‘like father, like son!’

6. Favourite piece of trivia about the region.

The West Riding Registry of Deeds is brilliant if old deeds to properties have been lost to provide reliable evidence of ownership. It really is amazing the extent of the records that are kept, and they have provided so much aid to situations in which the records have been lost.

7. What is your favourite cultural icon to come out of Yorkshire?

The Diamond Building, part of Sheffield University, is a huge piece of cultural heritage for Yorkshire. It offers a unique learning environment for engineering students at the University of Sheffield owing to its aluminium diamond shaped facade exterior. It stands at the heart of the University campus as a major investment in learning and teaching.

8. First experience of Yorkshire (for non-Yorkshire folk)

Well I am Yorkshire born and bred so I suppose my first experience was on the morning of 7th March 1949 when I made my first appearance at Jessop’s hospital, Sheffield!

9. Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?

Well, it’s very difficult to think of a bad experience in this majestic county. But, the worst thing I’ve ever experienced is sitting in the Leeds United stand at an away game, truly horrific! The rivalry between the two teams is exponential, almost as prolific as the rivalry at a Sheffield derby game.

10. What is one thing you’d steal from Lancashire (or other UK regions) if you could?

Nothing from Lancashire unfortunately – I have never been so I feel that I can’t comment. I would, however, steal Wembley football arena and place it in Sheffield for Wednesday to play – what an honour that would be!

11. What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?

Well, there isn’t anything about Yorkshire that is underrated per se, but – you may call me old-fashioned, and maybe I am very biased because I am Sheffield through-and-through, the city of Leeds sometimes gains more credit than is due, especially in comparison to the great city of Sheffield.

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