Ten Questions: Andy Ross

Published on Tuesday 15 January 2008 08:22

ANDY ROSS is director of the New Caledonian Woodlands, which aims to bring about positive change to the environment.

1 What is your earliest memory of Edinburgh? I grew up in Dunoon on the west coast of Scotland and also in Canada, so my earliest memory of Edinburgh is a visit I made with my family. I remember climbing all the way up the Scott Monument. The narrow spiral staircase near the top was the best bit.

2 What are your memories of school? I went to Dunoon Grammar School and my best memory of my time there was the day I left!

3 Where is your favourite place in Edinburgh and why? It is a close thing between Blackford Hill for its amazing views and the breakwater at Granton Harbour – you can't really get any closer to the water!

4 What are the best things about Edinburgh? The best things about Edinburgh are the great natural spaces that exist within it.To find places like the Water of Leith, Holyrood Park and Corstorphine and Blackford Hill in the middle of a city is exceptional.

5 What would you change about the city? If I could change anything about the city it would be to get rid of all the traffic. It's a nightmare.

6 Describe a perfect Edinburgh day/night out. My perfect Edinburgh day would be spent at a nearby beach on a rare hot summer day. That would be followed by a good night out with friends, probably in Leith.

7 Which sports interest you? I like many sports, but surfing, mountain-biking, swimming and skiing are my favourites, although I also lose at squash on a regular basis.

8 What was your most embarrassing moment? The sheer number of embarrassing moments I have had make it hard to single one out...

9 What is your greatest achievement? My greatest achievement has been setting up New Caledonian Woodlands. We've created a not-for-profit organisation that enables people to learn in a hands-on way how to help protect the environment for the future. We are always looking for new participants to join us in our work.

10 Sum up Edinburgh in three words. Beautiful, unique, dynamic.

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