My Yorkshire: Tim Axe, partner at LCF Barber Titleys

Tim Axe is a partner and planning law expert at LCF Barber Titleys, which is part of LCF Law.

Where do you live/where are you from?

I live in the Vale of York near Easingwold, but originate from North Norfolk. There are similarities between the two which make me feel at home – big skies, a historic city ringed by market towns and an economy based on agriculture.

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

Castle Howard is truly special, and the view to it from across the Lake is breathtaking. I never tire of it, and it has lots of happy memories for me of when my children were young and loved the adventure playground, especially the zipwire. There is also a wartime connection as my mother-in-law was evacuated there with her school and remembers the night it was hit by an incendiary device.

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

To get to know the Dales better. They are almost too close and so lend themselves to occasional day visits rather than for a week’s stay. I have also yet to visit the Bowes Museum and this could perhaps be combined with a stay in lesser known Teesdale, which is supposed to be stunning.

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

It must be one I had at the Merchant Tailors’ Hall in York on my wedding day – less about the food – and more about the occasion.

 What is your most Yorkshire trait?

I am a proud East Anglian and so try not to succumb to Yorkshire ways. However, it was only when I came to Yorkshire that I realised that pork pies should be pink and delicious and I now eat them whenever I can (washed down by a pint of Timothy Taylor’s Landlord if available).

Favourite piece of trivia about the region.

Probably that the infamous Guy Fawkes, although best known for his exploits in Westminster’s Great Hall, was born in York.

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

I love the White Horse at Kilburn which can be seen for miles around. A real North Yorkshire landmark. Once you have negotiated the steps up, there’s a great walk along the top which works up a thirst which can only be slaked by another Yorkshire icon, a cup of Yorkshire Tea!

First experience of Yorkshire (for non-Yorkshire folk)

A cricket tour to the York area back in the late 1970s. Little did I know that I would end up living here. What I remember was the weather (surprisingly hot) and the Yorkshire accents and humour, both on the pitch and off it.

Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?

A visit to the old Ayrsome Park in 1980 to see my team, Norwich City, get thumped 6-1 by Middlesbrough.

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

Some of their golf courses – Royal Birkdale for a start!

What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?

I have never really understood mushy peas, which I have heard referred to as “Yorkshire caviar.” Give me the real thing any day.