My Yorkshire: Niall Gunn, managing director of Prosperis

Niall Gunn is managing director of Harrogate-based financial consultancy Prosperis. Gunn has over 30 years’ experience in the financial services sector, having worked initially for a consulting actuary and then as a financial adviser and benefits consultant.

Where do you live/where are you from?

I have lived in Harrogate, North Yorkshire for nearly 30 years. Originally, I was born in Dublin, Ireland and am very proud of my green heritage!

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

I love the Dales and, in particular, Littondale. The scenery is spectacular in winter and summer and the villages have some of the best pubs around. A great place.

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

I would very much like to climb the Three peaks but I fear aged bones now will stop me doing that one!

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

That would be Beef Wellington at Restaurant 92 in Harrogate. Sadly, now closed it was just fabulous and had to be shared with my wife (too big for one they said!)

What is your most Yorkshire trait?

I don’t think I have any as such but the Irish go well with the Yorkshire. We speak our minds and are honest with what we see and say.

Favourite piece of trivia about the region.

The Harry Potter film, the Deathly Hallows, was filmed the top of Malham Cove. I think some of the scenes featured views across Malhamdale and Cawden and down to the villages of Malham and Kirkby Malham.

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

Grit and determination. Yorkshire folk are full of it. From the brave miners of the great, sadly now lost, Yorkshire pits to the fell farmers of the dales and the moors, they have this in bucket loads. Whatever the world or life throws at them, they just get on with it.

Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?

Traffic. Like all parts of the UK, Yorkshire is blighted by poor traffic controls in the cities and towns of the region.

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

I do like a bit of black pudding and the occasional Cromer Crab but for me, Yorkshire has everything from fantastic locally produce foods to the best real ales in the world. No need to pinch anything we have the lot!

What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?

There is very little over rated in Yorkshire its all great. We have the people, we have the places, we have the food and drink I suppose the weather might be an issue for some!