My Yorkshire: Martin Holden, Saffery Champness
Martin Holden is head of office in Harrogate for accountancy firm Saffery Champness. He is a member of the firm’s professional and consultancy services Group and specialises in advising family businesses and professional practices.
Where do you live/where are you from?
I live in Skipton but hail from across the border – Blackburn, Lancashire.
What is your favourite place to visit in Yorkshire and why?
Bolton Abbey. I run there in the mornings and walk the dogs along the river towards the Abbey in the evenings. It’s at its best when it isn’t shared so early mornings and evenings are perfect.
What is still on your “to do” list in the region?
I’d like to walk the Pennine Way.
What is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had in Yorkshire?
It has to be Dover Sole at Rudding Park Hotel, Harrogate, served as it should be with chips.
What is your most Yorkshire trait?
My daughter tells me I haggle for everything. She also tells me it doesn’t work in Tesco, but it does.
Favourite piece of trivia about the region.
The fact that it’s well known as being such a friendly place. This is something that really comes across in the local business community and in my work I appreciate that characteristic Yorkshire openness.
What is your favourite cultural icon to come out of Yorkshire?
Alan Bennett and Yorkshire Tea.
First experience of Yorkshire
The Headingly Run – the famous pub crawl that’s also known as the Headingly Mile or the Otley Run.
Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?
The rain it never stops and everybody is tight.
What is one thing you’d steal from Lancashire if you could?
Lancashire Hotpot and Blackburn Rovers
What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?
Pork Pie!
See also:
Karen Tinkler, The Partners Group
