Favourite Things: Wildlife Park, walks on the Moors, lamb roasts and Motown

This week, Janet Havenhand, the manager of Arksey St John Ambulance Cadet and Badger Unit, talks about the things that feature in her life.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park - a favourite place to visitYorkshire Wildlife Park - a favourite place to visit
Yorkshire Wildlife Park - a favourite place to visit

How long have you lived in Doncaster and whereabouts?

I was born in Doncaster and have lived in the same house in Bentley for all of my 65 years.

Janet HavenhandJanet Havenhand
Janet Havenhand

Do you have family?

No, I have been single all of my life, and my closest relative is my twin brother.

Where do you work?

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I have been retired since 2011 but worked as a buyer for Pegler Yorkshire in Balby, Doncaster, for 44 years.

Janet HavenhandJanet Havenhand
Janet Havenhand

What, if any, involvement do you have with local groups?

I run Arksey St John Ambulance Cadets and Badgers, and I am also the Youth Lead for all young St John Ambulance members in Doncaster.

What keeps you going during a hard week?

My involvement with St John Ambulance and my dog Misty, who always gives me a warm welcome when I get home.

What do you hope to achieve as part of your role in the town?

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I have recently completed 51 years in St John Ambulance, and 40 years running the same youth unit in Arksey/Bentley, giving children the opportunity to learn new life skills. I want to continue this for as long as I am able to do so.

What is it you like about living in Doncaster?

I am able to get to amenities and shops in a short space of time from my home, but it has changed significantly from when I was a child, and growing up here.

Do you have a favourite hidden gem in Doncaster?

The Yorkshire Wildlife Park, and Hatfield Moors - I like to take my dog out there for a walk with my friend when I can.

What would be your favourite day out?

A nice walk and picnic in the sunshine with my dog and best friend.

What is your favourite pub or place to eat?

I am teetotal so generally don’t go in pubs.

What do you do in your spare time?

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I don’t have very much spare time, but when I do I enjoy gardening, and going to aqua-fit to get some exercise, and walking my dog.

What is your favourite book?

I don’t really have a favourite book.

Favourite film?

Any of the Star Wars or Harry Potter films.

What sort of music do you like to listen to?

I enjoy Tamla Motown.

If you could eat only one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?

A lamb roast dinner.

You find yourself stranded on a desert island and can be joined there by one other person - dead or alive ... who would it be?

My mum.

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