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Tom Morton is The Alternative Board’s local Facilitator for the Harrogate region.
In this quick-fire interview, Tom provides insight into his most embarrassing mistake, his love of cricket and golf, and his very clever choice for his final meal.
What was your first job?
When I was 18, I worked in a label-stringing factory in Nottingham alongside a number of puzzled but robust Nottingham ladies (mostly wives of miners). Fortunately, they adopted me as a sort of mascot...
What would you be doing if you weren't in your current position?
Probably vegetating, getting more and more grumpy, and getting under my wife's feet -- as opposed to having the best job in the world, as I do now!
What’s the worst mistake you’ve ever made?
(Most embarrassing) When I was 14, I answered my parents' phone when they were out and being impatient with the caller for whispering -- not knowing that he'd had a tracheotomy -- still makes my blood run cold!
(Most important) Not starting my own business a lot earlier.
What are you proud of but never have an excuse to talk about?
Running a half marathon in 1 hr 52 min (though this was a number of years ago!)
What’s your ideal day away from the office?
Playing golf on a links course on a fine day with good friends.
Name one person you would like to have dinner with and why.
(Still alive) Mike Brearley is the greatest ever England cricket captain and a perfect example of a leader.
(No longer with us) William Shakespeare (how on earth did he have such insight into things which are still key issues 400 years later and always will be?)
What was your best subject at school?
Maths -- I loved it, and still do (it underpins virtually everything else)
What was the best day of your life?
My wedding day!! (Surely you didn't expect any other answer?)
What would be your last meal?
Ideally, something which took AGES to eat!
What would you do if you won the lottery?
I would try to help a lot of people—but it would be difficult because I don't buy a ticket!
What is your top time-saving tip?
Don't be afraid to say NO.
What was the last picture you took?
A golf mate (You Know Who You Are) attempting to play his ball out of a hawthorn bush.
What would your epitaph be?
What I'd LIKE it to be is something like "he helped to change other people's lives for the better." What it'll actually be—well, who knows?
Where do you want to be in an hour?
Going for a brisk walk (it's a lovely crisp day as I write this).
And finally, what would you like for Christmas this year?
A nice surprise!
...
About Tom Morton
Tom Morton is the owner of TAB Harrogate.
With over 27 years as a partner at PKF, Tom has extensive commercial experience, managing a diverse client base and leading the Leeds office.
He also served on PKF’s National Management Board, directing strategic planning.
Tom has held leadership roles, including President of Leeds Chamber of Commerce and Council member at the University of Leeds.
And as an Oxford graduate and chartered accountant, Tom excels in helping businesses thrive across North and West Yorkshire.
Get in touch with Tom today to learn more about how joining TAB can help you and your business achieve your goals.
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