My Yorkshire: Andy Gascoigne, owner of the Haworth Steam Brewery

Andy Gascoigne is the owner of the Haworth Steam Brewery, distiller of Haworth Gins. He is also an ex-Leeds Rhinos Rugby League star.

Where do you live/where are you from?

I was born in Wakefield in 1962. I now live with my wife Mandy in Haworth, West Yorkshire.

What is your favourite place to visit and why?

When my wife Mandy and I get time, which is very infrequent, we love to drive up to Heath, Wakefield in the summer on an evening. We borrow our daughter’s dog and sit out at the Kings Arms, and enjoy a pint or two. I used to play on Heath Common, as a child all through the school holidays, it reminds me of days gone by.

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

Well I suppose the cat’s out of the bag now, but I am looking to buy a Yorkshire village pub, or shall I say a one-pub village. It’s my retirement plan or that’s the idea. I know I have a great place already in Haworth, and I will keep this, but ultimately I need a slower pace of life and a new challenge. That keeps me alive.

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

Years ago when I played for Hull RLFC there used to be a place called Bottles in Oulton. It was always busy and you could see many a famous rugby league player, many used to go there after games or even on Saturday evenings before playing the day after. It always had a great atmosphere and there was always someone to chat to.

What is your most Yorkshire trait?

Well I speak my mind – you would expect nothing less. However, I have a few Yorkshire mates – we all have businesses – and  you shouldn’t take yourself too seriously when there’s banter. I live by this! If you cannot take it then don’t give it, it’s simple.

Favourite piece of Yorkshire trivia?

There are only three players ever who played for all three of these RL clubs, Hunslet, Bramley & Leeds. I am one of them, but who are the other two?

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

The easiest question ever, Roger Millward MBE. What a statesmen for our sport of Rugby League, a true legend of the game and the nicest man you could ever wish to meet. I was so lucky to be able to call him a friend, unfortunately he is not with us anymore.

Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?

Exiting Leeds M621 onto the M62 to Chain Bar roundabout. It’s my journey home most nights along with the rest of my fellow motorists. It’s supposed to be a ‘Smart Motorway’ but it’s the most depressing journey, and I hate it.

What is the one thing that you would steal from another part of the country?

Nothing. If anything, people try to steal our identity here in Yorkshire, as it’s a name associated with quality either in production or manufacturing. Companies use the name even though their  products are made elsewhere, it riles me and it deceives the consumer. You wouldn’t claim Wensleydale Cheese if it was made in Batley.

What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?

Sorry folks, but it is John Smith’s Smooth! If this was the only beer on the market I would be definitely be on the wagon. I am a real ale fan and there are some fantastic small Yorkshire breweries, too many to mention.