My Yorkshire: Jill Peel, creative director of 10 Associates

Jill Peel is co-founder and creative director of the Mirfield-based digital agency 10 Associates. Established in 2004, 10 Associates’ 10-strong team operates from  The Watermill premises in Wheatley Park.

Where do you live/where are you from?

I’m a Bradford girl, born in Mirfield and I have, strangely, ended back in my home village when we moved the 10 Associates business here which is at The Watermill down at Wheatley Park… or as one our designers calls it, ‘the magic box in the forest’!

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

For the best countryside, it has to be Cragg Vale near Hebden Bridge for me. Every time the hills and the light give me that ‘top of the world’ feeling. Coast-wise, you can’t beat Filey. From the five-mile beach to the sea air and giving you a chance for a true spot of escapism. When it comes to city life, I absolutely love York from it’s cobbled streets to its traditional shops and a chance to ‘step into another world’.

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

Too much! I plan to do the Pennine Way, eat at every Michelin-starred restaurant (of which there are six there now), visit every last stately home and attraction I haven’t done so far, and, most importantly, decide where I want to live next (I’ve whittled it down to three areas… I’ll let you know when I decide!)

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

Blimey. I’ll have to say the most recent which was a boisterous evening at Pax Burger in Lindley, Huddersfield, with my godchildren. It was delicious, crazy and wonderful. Or, there was also the meal I had at Harrogate’s Rudding Park to celebrate my grandma’s 105th birthday in July where they looked after her like a queen. I just can’t decide!

What is your most Yorkshire trait?

My accent.

Favourite piece of trivia about the region?

There’s so many to choose from. I’ll go with ‘Thomas Crapper’, the guy who invented the modern toilet, was born in Yorkshire.

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

This has to be our very own Bradford boy, David Hockney. He is an absolute genius. David is also the creator of two of my favourite paintings ever and always provides a great reason to visit Salts Mill in Shipley to see his collection.

Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?

This is a tricky one! But, living pretty close to the M62, I’d have to say the endless jams, delays and noise. That, and the terrible town planning and infrastructure in and around Bradford. In my lifetime, I’ve seen Leeds overtake Bradford with giant strides – I remember a time when they were neck-and-neck in the shopping, living and going out stakes.

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

I’d actually steal their accent as I think it is fabulous. Is it not?

What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?

Yorkshire. Overrated? Never!

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