My Yorkshire: Chair of Bradford BID and General Manager of The Broadway

Ian Ward, General Manager at The Broadway, Bradford and Chair of the Bradford BID Development Group.

Where do you live/where are you from?

I was born in Saddleworth but I now live in Westhoughton in Bolton. My daily commute along the M62 to Bradford, which can take anywhere between one and two hours, is one of the only things I’d change about my job.

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

The route from Ingleborough to Pen-y-Ghent in the Dales is absolutely beautiful. This is the second year management staff at The Broadway have taken part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge to raise money for our chosen charity, Bradford Hospitals Children’s Charity, and the scenery along the walk is breathtaking.

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

At the moment, top of my agenda is campaigning with the Bradford BID development group for £250 million investment into the city centre. We want to give local businesses a voice in what they want for the city and where they see Bradford’s future.

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

You can’t beat fish and chips from the Wetherby Whaler near Menston.

What is your most Yorkshire trait?

Although I’m an adopted Yorkshireman, anyone who knows me well appreciates that I can’t start my morning without a cup of tea, plus half a dozen more through throughout the day.

Favourite piece of trivia about the region.

I was surprised to learn recently that Yorkshire is the birthplace of Rugby League and Club Football. My dad was a professional referee for the Rugby League and I’ve always been a huge supporter of my home team, Oldham.

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

David Hockney. He’s one of the UK’s most iconic and influential artists and has really helped put Bradford on the map.

Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?

As a commuter, I can safely say one of Yorkshire’s biggest flaws is its appalling transport links. Connectivity is key to us growing as a region – economically, socially and culturally. We’re currently petitioning for Bradford to join the Northern Powerhouse Rail scheme, which I believe will go a long way towards creating more opportunities and better prospects for people living across Yorkshire.

What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?

It’s an unpopular opinion but I absolutely hate Yorkshire Pudding – that is, unless it’s covered in custard.

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