Last updated at 14:25, Tuesday, 21 August 2012

MY name is Ralph Spours, I am over 65 (just a bit) and I own Ralph Spours Estate Agents in Ulverston.”

PERSONALITY: Ralph Spours

What was your first job?

I was a grocery delivery boy for Duncans the Grocers in my home town of South Shields, and I rode a “Granville” style delivery bike.

How did you get your current job?

I started my own business from scratch on April 1, 1985. The date of April 1 perhaps suggests my attitude to life?

Describe the company you own in one sentence.

My company is an individual, independent estate agents, specialising in the sale of domestic properties.

How many hours do you work a week?

Far too many – but I never tire of the thrill of selling.

How many people are you responsible for?

I work with the aid of my daughter Helen and Lucy. Both are quite excellent at their jobs.

What’s your greatest achievement?

Surviving this awful recession, the worst that anyone can recall.

What gives you the biggest work buzz?

Receiving more instructions to sell yet another property.

What’s your motto at work?

My motto has always been the same – PPP. Perseverance Pays Profits.

What’s the best thing about being a boss?

The ability to do things ‘my way’ without having to refer to anyone.

What’s the worst thing about being a boss?

Not much. I’ve been the boss for a long time and I like it!

What’s your favourite website?

www.ralphspours.com – my own website, which is a quirky as me!”

Your first car?

A Bond Mini-Car. Terribly unstable, dangerous and a complete load of rubbish. I now have a beautiful Jaguar Sovereign and a gorgeous 1982 Mercedes 380 SL sports car. Fabulous.

How do you relax?

All kinds of music, kite-flying, biking, motor-cycling (on a Suzuki Bandit), walking and a considerable amount of socialising.

What’s the best thing about doing business in Cumbria?

Being able to work for the fantastic people in the fabulous environment of the Furness peninsula.”

If we arrived at your office today, what item might we be surprised to find on your desk?

A vacant space.

Something your employees would be surprised to find out about you...

That I was very shy when I was at school. Well – for the first few days, anyhow.

First published at 12:12, Tuesday, 21 August 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk