Do you dig the headpointing game? What was the last one you threw yourself at?
I’ve done a little headpointing, but I certainly ain’t no headpointer. It’s a strange game. I kind of think that if you are going to work a route into submission until the chances of a fall are almost zero, might as well just go sport climbing and enjoy the moves. I love headpointing where it’s not super dangerous, big falls maybe, but falling off is more of a scary prospect as opposed to busted body. I’ve done a few E9’s like that — they were hard, like 13b or harder and scary, too, but this is really ‘trad’ redpointing. Basically I’m not into hurting myself. There is way too much climbing to do…and I’ve got a daughter who I want to wake up and see for a long time.

Who do you climb with, mostly?
Sheffield has a great climbing community, loads of people getting out there. Today I was out with two of my good mates, Rab Carrington and Al Austin. Both 60, they climbed their first 8a this year. Now that inspires me! I like to climb with people from whom I can learn.

What kind of person are you?
I’m a person who likes to be on the go all the time. I can’t settle and I’m always going to be searching for something. I also like to do things right. I’m into DIY (because my house is a wreck) and no builder could get it to the standard I want.

What is the most important trait in a person?
Honesty is up there.

What's the most shameful thing you've ever done?
And you think I’d tell that to the world?

Is it important to have a plan?
I’m really good at planning, but only short term. In fact for me I have to have a plan, I need to know what is coming up to keep me psyched; local climbing tomorrow, routes setting next week, big party at the weekend, a week in Spain in a month… but that is as far as it goes. I have absolutely no idea about next year. And as for future finances, erm..