We challenge our contributors to reply to ten devilishly probing questions about their London and we don’t take “Sorry Gov” for an answer. Everyone sitting in the hot seat they will face the same questions ranging from their favourite way to spend a day out in the capital to their most hated building on London’s skyline to find out what Londoners think about their city. The questions are the same but the answers vary wildly.

I was born in New Zealand and brought up on a farm. My Yorkshire born dad was a NZ policeman who was sent to Samoa during WWII and my mum posted as a nurse there. Dad had to line up for an injection and I’m the prick as the result! In my 20s in an ambulance service in NZ, I found out I could get a British passport so ventured to London to the London Ambulance Service and posted to Chelsea then Battersea. I came back when dad was dying but wish I’d stayed. On retirement I wrote an autobiography (privately published). My dream to own an London cab.

What’s your secret London tip?

Make good use of the London cabs. They work out cheaper as you will save the crowds, the queues, the walking, the weather, and have more time available – plus the banter and the knowledge they have.

What’s your secret London place?

Barnes SW13

What’s your biggest gripe about London?

Doggy doo

What’s your favourite building?

Harrods

What’s your most hated building?

County Hall

What’s the best view in London?

Outside Lambeth Palace looking east

What’s your personal London landmark?

Barnes Bridge

What’s London’s best film, book or documentary?

Paddington Bear

What’s your favourite restaurant?

The Bluebird, Kings Road Chelsea

How would you spend your ideal day off in London?

Boat trip to Hampton Court