My Yorkshire: Rebecca Thompson, managing director of Thompson Heritage Consultancy

Rebecca Thompson is the newly appointed Chair of York Design Award and is also the managing director of Thompson Heritage Consultancy.

Where do you live/where are you from?

We live in Bubwith just south of York, but I am actually from Wigginton, just north of York

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

That has got to be Castle Howard, not only one of the top Treasure Houses of the UK, but an amazing architecture and landscape.  It appeals to all my friends as their carrot cake is the best! It also appeals to all ages of the family as they have ancient monuments and children’s playgrounds all in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

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

My ‘to do’ list includes walking the coastline of the UK, I have only completed a short section in Yorkshire, so I need to finish that before I venture further.

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

A fundraising dinner in York Minster where the nave was turfed with real grass and the theme was ‘Alice in Wonderland’ the Minster was transformed, it was a superb and memorable night and rare chance to experience the Minster with a lawn and acrobats!

What is your most Yorkshire trait?

My Yorkshire tea drinking capacity is phenomenal, the solution to everything – a cup of tea!

Favourite piece of trivia about the region.

The ‘cats eye’ reflective road stud was invented by Percy Shaw of Halifax.

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

Judy Dench – a legend!  I actually had the pleasure of meeting her once, such a lovely lady, it was like meeting the Queen!

Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?

The northern rail network, great trains to London, appalling service east to west.

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

I would steal haggis from Scotland, with the ‘neeps’ and ‘tatties’ of course!

What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?

Overrated?! No, I think we are far too humble!

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