This may be the obvious answer to the question, but my family have had the biggest influence on my life.

My parents brought me up to work hard and to stand on my own two feet. They encouraged me and instilled in me the fact that if I want to do something, I can. Most importantly, from my Mum more than anyone, no one can make me feel like I am worthless-if they try, prove them wrong and make life hard for them in the process!

Another very large influence was my grandad. A loud, Lancastrian farmer (with Lancashire being a county in north west England), he would make it known when he thought you were being a bit silly. This wasn’t done in any sort of nasty way at all, but he had a way to encourage you that you don’t really see today-when I think about him, he always puts a smile on my face! You could also tell he took great pleasure in spending time with all his grandkids

My grandma’s were also lovely women who I enjoyed the company. My siblings also have to be mentioned-we enjoyed many adventures and arguments and thankfully get on well now. Now that I have a son and a husband, they both have an influence too.