My Yorkshire: Elizabeth Hudson, Cream PR
Elizabeth Hudson is a director of Cream PR, based in Leeds
Where do you live/where are you from?
I’m Yorkshire born and bred. I grew up in Altofts, just outside Wakefield. After moving away to uni at Oxford and working in London and the Midlands, the lure of home became too much, and I had to move back. We now live in Thurgoland, a village up in the hills near Penistone and I absolutely love living in that gorgeous part of the county.
What is your favourite place to visit in Yorkshire and why?
This is so tough. There are far too many fabulous places to choose from. Right on my doorstep though is the brilliant Cannon Hall. With a nine year old and a five month old, it’s tricky finding things for us all to do but there’s so much there. Whether it’s a walk round the grounds of Cannon Hall rounded off with a cake in the superb bistro in the garden centre, or a trip to the farm to see the latest new arrivals and enjoy whatever special event they’ve got on at the time, we never get bored of it.
What is still on your “to do” list in the region?
I’ve never been to Ikley Moor, with or without my hat!
What is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had in Yorkshire?
Has to be my wedding breakfast. I married a man from Cornwall so our menu was a mix up of the best Cornwall and Yorkshire has to offer. The main course was a ‘Best of Yorkshire’ roast, with locally sourced beef and plenty of Yorkshire puds. We had the reception in a marquee at the stunning Smallshaw Farm so CGC Events did the catering. Top quality food amazingly all produced in a portable kitchen in a tent.
What is your most Yorkshire trait?
I’d say friendliness, but my family would probably say it’s my tendency to be stubborn! I rarely give up on anything, whether that’s a project or an argument.
Favourite piece of trivia about the region.
I love that M&S started its global business from a small market stall in Leeds. Cream is based in the Leeming Building above Kirkgate Market and it’s quite inspirational to walk past the little stand M&S has in there and think what the company has become.
What/who is your favourite cultural icon to come out of Yorkshire?
Perhaps not as well known as she deserves to be but one of my favourite singers is a Leeds lass – Corinne Bailey-Rae. I’ve seen her live twice and she was fantastic both times.
Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?
I think it has to be the way certain parts of our great county have been neglected by successive governments. Whilst the cities are wonderfully progressive and growing at pace, it’s heart-breaking to see some of the smaller towns and villages that were once the thriving heart of Yorkshire still struggling 30+ years after the issues of the 80s.
What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?
Nothing’s overrated! It’s an incredible part of the world to live in and I feel lucky every day to be able to call it home (although a bit more sunshine and a little less snow would be nice).