'Duty first, self second': the many different hats of one community-minded man

As Nub News establishes itself as an online local newspaper in towns up and down the country (we are currently live in 26 towns across the UK) it's interesting to see the unique characteristics that different places possess.

What is striking about Honiton is the strong sense of community.

There is a large network of volunteer groups, charities and official bodies, which all work tirelessly for the benefit of the town and its residents.

One person heavily involved with community affairs, bringing boundless energy and eclectic style to the town's resolutely conservative mix, is Duncan Sheridan-Shaw.

Nub News caught up with Duncan at his home in Honiton to find out more about the sharply-dressed man with multiple hats.

He begins by explaining his connection to the town: "I was born and raised here, my family are from here; Honiton has always been my home.

"What I love about it is that you feel close to a cosmopolitan lifestyle, being on a main thoroughfare of travel links, but you also have the countryside on your doorstep.

"You could say it's the best of both worlds and that is me through and through.

"I love big cities; I love the bright lights, the huge shopping centres and the boutique markets. But I also like to put my wellies on and go for a trudge in the mud."

"I also find Honiton a very welcoming place.

"For a traditional, 'Conservative with a big C' town, there is surprisingly little discrimination.

"My husband and I have never experienced any problems living here."

"I suppose I've embraced it and in a way the town has embraced me back. I'm not one to shy away from being myself."

Readers may know Duncan from Honiton Tesco, where he has been stationed since completing an NVQ in Tourism and Events Management at Honiton's sixth form college.

Speaking of his long-running employment at the store, he said: "Everything I've done is under the auspices of Tesco's.

"It all started when they wanted a manager to join the Honiton Chamber of Commerce and asked if I would do it."

That was back in 2017. A year later Duncan became a publicly elected member of Honiton Town Councillor after door-to-door canvassing and 'pounding the beat talking to people'.

"From there I started doing what I like to think I do very well, which is setting up meetings, interacting with people, making a jug of coffee and having a chat.

"Ultimately it's about getting involved with groups where we can work together for the community.

"I went from being a customer service manager, to a community manager, a town councillor, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, deputy chair of the Dementia Action Alliance and charity director of The Beehive."

To finish off, Nub News compiled a quick-fire round of questions, which Duncan answered off the top of his head.

• Local person who has inspired you:

"You can't talk about local inspiration without mentioning Heather Penwarden, because of the phenomenal work she does.

• Three words to describe Honiton:

"Community, friendly, accepting."

• What advice would you give to 12-year-old you?

"You cannot forget about your health. Be that physical or mental. It might sound cliché, but you've got to remember your health.

"And also, keep your friends close."

• Famous inspiration:

"It would be remiss of me not to mention the Royal Family, particularly the Queen.

"Everybody knows that I am a huge royalist. The Queen has a moto; 'duty first, self second' and I believe that wholeheartedly. Be that to your family, your job, your community."

• How does your star sign relate to your personality?

"One hundred per cent! Taurus is stubborn, forthright, we like fine dining, we are very social. I am a typical Taurus."

• Dogs or cats?