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We talk with Danny Willis, entrepreneur, businessman, curry afficianado, wine taster and super talented part-time boxer... even if he does say so himself!
THE LAST WORD
Danny, what do you do?
I worked as a social worker for over fifteen years but I’m now a partner in a property services company with John Smith. We provide all aspects of building and management services to individuals, the domestic and commercial sectors.
What do you like about the Vale?
I’ve lived in the Vale all my life. I like the semi-rural feel of the county and the sense of community.
Where is your favourite dining experience?
I eat at The Glendale a lot in Penarth. It serves great Italian food and it’s family run. Also El Porto on Penarth Marina – it’s a Spanish style fish restaurant. My friends tell me I need to eat more fish!
What is your favourite meal?
Italian food – all of it really. And I like curries, but you can’t tell from my physique. The Star of Wales in Canton is a favourite curry house of mine.
Favourite place in the Vale?
I live in Penarth and love the town but I must confess to having a soft spot for Cowbridge. My wife works there and we love the shops and market town ambience. I also love Southerndown – I take my two boys there – it’s a great place to chill out.
Best event in the Vale?
If there’s a boxing show on, I’ll try to go along. I’m Chairman of Penarth ABC (www.penarthboxing.com) so I have a big interest in the sport. I’ve been involved with the gym for over twenty years. I have a great deal of respect for the work that the coach Neil Munn is doing there with his young boxers. He doesn’t get the recognition he deserves.
What’s missing in the Vale?
I think we need more resources for children and teenagers. It’s easy to complain about kids but they rarely have the facilities they need. Penarth ABC is a classic example - we get little support for our efforts. If it wasn’t for the generous donations of time and cash from local businesses and individuals, the club would not have lasted as it has. I’m also on the committee of the Mini Rugby in Dinas Powys. This is a fine example of how putting in the right resources and also engaging the community can produce amazing results. We have a vibrant membership and nearly 200 children are now involved - the success is down to the commitment of the volunteers. I’m a great believer in people power.
Favourite place to stay in Wales?
Fourcroft in Tenby, a four star hotel.
What do you do to relax?
I don’t. I’m always busy doing something but I try to relax at the gym.
Do you have a pet hate?
Wasted resources. Rude people and unfortunately there are too many of those about. Oh and lazy people.
Favourite music?
Anything and everything; Oasis, Stereophonics... to be honest I listen to Radio 4 on in the car most of the time.
Most memorable event?
My boys being born and their first days in school.
Sum yourself up in three words
Slim, good-looking! I’m also a talented boxer... haha.
What gadget would you not be without and why?
My mobile phone. I spend too much time and money on it but it’s impossible to function without it.
Any lifelong ambition?
To be successful but to be honest I just want to see my kids grow up and watch them make their way in life.
I’m very good at…
Communicating and engaging with people... planning. Oh and nagging. I nag people a lot to get things done.
I’m very bad at…
Saying no to a curry. Saying no to a glass of good red wine.
JSW Property Services
Ynys Fach Yard Heol Y Ynys Taffs Well Cardiff CF15 7NT
029 2081 4419
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If you’d like to be featured or would like to promote your business in
Last Word, please call Jennifer on 0845 130 6452
or email jennifer@valelife.co.uk
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