Each month, a member is given a set of questions to answer. It’s intended to be a light-hearted feature, but should allow readers to find out more about other FMB members.
FMB and MasterBond member Harry Shanker of Shanker Builders Limited in Southampton has an adventurous streak. He’s just completed a gruelling 16 hour, 874 mile motorbike ride from Lands End to John O’Groats. He was raising money for the Rose Road Association which works with young people from across Hampshire and the south of England, who have complex and multiple disabilities. You can still donate at www.justgiving.com/cliffbaker.
MB: What keeps you awake at night?
Harry: Maks my nutty English Springer Spaniel.
MB: What was your greatest achievement (workwise) last month?
Harry: Getting to roof level on an eight bedroom mansion project.
MB: What should they make a law against?
Harry: All MP’s expenses. They get a big enough wage as it is.
MB: If you weren’t a builder what would you be?
Harry: Maybe an architect or engineer - or both.
MB: What did you want to be when you were little?
Harry: A stuntman
(Editor’s note: That explains the road trip then)
MB: Rugby or football? Which club?
Harry: Football and Southampton.
MB: What was the last CD you bought?
Harry: Evanescence.
MB: If you were given £1 million, what would you blow it on?
Harry: Lots of presents for the family, action packed holidays, big boy’s toys like flying lessons in both plane and helicopter, new motorbike, the list goes on...
MB: A piece of advice please (about anything)!
Harry: Always make a list!
MB: What do you never have enough time to do?
Harry: To exercise and stay fit.
MB: What do you have for breakfast?
Harry: Nothing (I know it’s not good).
MB: What is your best quality?
Harry: I’m a good listener, understanding and forgiving (that’s what my wife says).
MB: And your worst?
Harry: Lack of patience sometimes.
MB: Who do you most admire and why?
Harry: My dad, coming from another country with nothing and overcoming all obstacles to make something of himself.
MB: What is your guilty pleasure?
Harry: The odd cigarette.
MB: What was the last book you read?
Harry: ‘Mental Training for Skydiving and Life’ by John DeRosalia (a while ago).
MB: What can you see out of your window – right now?
Harry: Lush green fields.
MB: What really irritates you?
Harry: Excuses for something that has happened before and that should never have happened again.
MB: What’s your best tip for surviving and thriving in a recession?
Harry: Baked beans and camping (Basically, zero extravagance and ride it through)
MB: What question would you add to this list for the next person?
Harry: If you could go back to being 16 again, would you do it all again and why?
Mark Slater who starred in the last ‘20 Questions’ suggested the next and last question:
Mark Slater: Why is it SO difficult to find true multi-skilled operatives?
Harry: The training is just not available. It has always been said that having a trade is the best way to go so people have always done exactly that rather than developing multi-skills.
