Wellbeing and Weight Loss Expert Nutritionist Barbara Cox moved to Poole in 2001 from Japan (although she is Canadian!). She started the healthy meal delivery company Nutrichef in 2004 and grew it to a national company before releasing her time at the helm in March 2015.

She is the author of the cookbook Rainbow recipes and consults on nutrition specialising in weight loss.

Barbara is also the business development director at Bloom Finance Group CIC, which has a range of managed bank accounts and loans specifically for Entrepreneurs looking to improve their money management and to take their business to the next level.

Q: What would be your perfect day out in Dorset?

A: Such a tough question as Dorset has so much to offer from sea to countryside. I’m going to go with the Jurassic Coast, as in 2010 I did the Jurassic Coast Challenge with an events company called Votwo and, over three days, I walked from Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy to Lulworth Cove, then to Shell Bay across from Sandbanks peninsula. Anywhere along this stunning Jurassic Coastal path is a perfect day out.

Q: What are your fondest memories of the county?

A: Corfe Castle is one of my favourite places and I take visitors from overseas there all the time. Rich in history, this quaint village is thriving with unique art and craft shops, bistro pubs and wonderful cream teas while over looking the castle ruins. An atmosphere like no other and loved by everyone I’ve taken.

Q: What has been your proudest achievement?

A: On the work front, I have two proudest achievements so far - they have been winning the UK title of Entrepreneur of The Year in 2009 by the British Chambers of Commerce and then in 2015 I won Lifetime Achievement Award by the Venus Women Awards. Both these accolades are a wonderful reminder of the dedication, hard work and team efforts to create a business that has transformed so many people’s lives. I absolutely adore what I do!

Q: Where do you get your inspiration from?

A: I get my inspiration from so many places. It could from my clients and family to make a better and healthier world for them. It could be on a drive to Kimmeridge and where I see fresh produce like eggs and vegetables that are vibrantly alive with colour and fragrance so I immediately want to create a new recipe. I can also get my inspiration from working alongside the terrific talent we have here in Dorset with great chefs and local food products and producers.

Q: What would be your favourite thing to do when you have a day off?

A: This is easy – go to the beach! I love being by the sea and my favourite spots are Hengistbury Head, Alum Chine, Lulworth Cove and Kimmeridge and it would have to involve a wonderful meal with local produce from the land and sea. Can’t wait for my next day off now!

Q: Where is your favourite place to eat in the county?

A: I have a few favourite places and they are all so different, I guess it depends on the mood I’m in.

If I want to relax then I go to the Square & Compass in Worth Matravers. I love Worth Matravers in the summertime as it has very little light pollution which makes star gazing awesome!

If I’m in an adventurer mood then I go to Wareham and rent a boat to go along the river for a few hours then settle back at the pub on the river called The Old Granary.

If I want something special where I can dress up and celebrate an occasion then I go to the glorious 10 Castle Street in Wimborne.

Q: What three things do you associate with Dorset?

A: For me, the three things I associate with Dorset are: 1. Jurassic Coastal Living 2. Great county food producers 3. Fantastic festivals

Q: If you could summarise the county in one word what would it be?

A: Alluring!