Famous locals - No.1 Graham Wisby

By Maria Varallo (a relatively new local)

Every month I shall interview a famous local and there are lots of them. These are people and businesses that are prominent in the village. I'm starting with businesses, as they are obvious to all but I would be grateful for any suggestions.

We all know Graham's shop due to its great location - at the crossroads.

1. What do you do?

Domestic upholstery and furniture restoration.

2. How did you get here?

I saw a two line advert in the Cambridge Evening News in 1991. That's when I had just left Eden Lily's, I had worked for them since 1973 in those days it had a whole department when I left there was only me and a machinist.

3. What do you like about being here?

I enjoy being self-employed and the location is perfect. You're noticed and I get to meet people and their families. All my customers come through personal recommendation some come from London.

I've had a pile of wood come through the door and the cabinet makers put the frame back together I do the rest, I like to see furniture restored to its former glory and of course customers faces.

4. What's your dream for the business?

To continue restoring furniture and I'm happy as I am, I don't want to grow the business.

5. And finally what's the best meal you've ever had?

It was in Jersey; salmon in a lovely sauce in a nice hotel restaurant more importantly I didn't have to cook it myself!

Many thanks Graham for being first and sharing a bit of your life with us.

About Maria

We have been living in the village 18 months now and love being able to cycle into Cambridge plus being able to walk or run round Histon and Westwick. It is lovely at this time of year watching the snowdrops and crocuses bringing colour to the countryside. Kris and I lived abroad for five years mainly in South East Asia before our boys came along, and throughout that time I constantly missed springtime in Britain. It's very special and we all feel it, have you noticed that people smile more and we can make time to chat to our neighbours especially when the heat of the sun is on your back. No matter how grumpy you think some one is, as it's Spring take a risk and look them in the eye and smile. Smiling is infectious; it spreads like yawning try it - dares you!

Maria runs her own successful coaching business offering bespoke and confidential coaching for independent professionals and small businesses.

If you know a famous local or would like to suggest someone please get in touch - maria@aspace2b.co.uk

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