My Yorkshire: Kelly Walters, Banner Jones Solicitors
Kelly Walters is a family solicitor in Sheffield Office of Banner Jones
Where do you live / where are you from?
I was born in Pontefract and moved to South Wales to study. After graduating and working there for 19 years, I returned to Yorkshire five years ago and now live in Barnsley. It’s great! Not only are we situated at the gateway to the Yorkshire Moors and Derbyshire, but we’re not too far from the East Coast either.
What is your favourite place to visit in Yorkshire and why?
It’s difficult to choose one place in particular as there are so many, but if my hand was forced I would have to say Cannon Hall which offers a variety of activities for a fun packed family day out. I would highly recommend it.
What is still on your “to do” list in the region?
Where to start? The geographical location of Yorkshire ensures that you can go exploring for days on end. I would like to try out Betty’s Tea shop in Harrogate, however, when the queue dies down as it is always so busy! Afternoon tea is a lovely treat, and Harrogate is exquisite too.
What is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had in Yorkshire and why?
I love Asian food, it tastes so fresh and the flavours are incredibly powerful. The Orchid Restaurant in Harrogate serves wonderful Asian food with excellent service, you can try something different each time you go and always be impressed.
What is your most Yorkshire trait?
Without a doubt my obsession with Yorkshire puddings. I love the homemade puddings my mum makes which always rise so perfectly… a skill I am yet to master!
Favourite piece of trivia about the region?
I am a sucker for history trivia, hence why I love the city of York. You can walk around the city and be hit with an abundance of historical knowledge; it’s great! Guy Fawkes was a Yorkshire man; he was actually born and educated in York, yet upon his return from fighting for Catholic Spain in the Eighty Years’ War he moved to London where he played a vital part in the Gunpowder Plot.
What is your favourite cultural icon to come out of Yorkshire?
I would have to say singer/ song writer Ricky Wilson, the frontman of the Kaiser Chiefs. I love their music and think Ricky Wilson to be a great personality championing the North.
Worst thing about Yorkshire?
There isn’t a lot that I would change about Yorkshire, I love the county, hence why I have settled here. One thing I perhaps would alter, however, would be the freezing temperatures in the winter. It can get bitterly cold up here, don’t forget your coat!
What is the one thing you would steal from another region if you could?
Since studying in South Wales I have developed a love of Welsh cakes, so I would steal them for Yorkshire’s sake! They remind me of the great memories I have of studying and university life.
What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?
I can’t think of anything overrated. We have beautiful countryside, great beer and most importantly, the best fish and chips!
