David Phipp is founder and managing director of David Phipp House Furnisher. He has been married to his wife, Annie, for 49 years and has two daughters and two grandchildren.

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

A: I always enjoy fishing on our family boat with my grandchildren Ollie & Georgiana. Then returning to barbecue our catch (if we are lucky!) with the rest of the family.

Q: What are your fondest memories of the county?

A: Growing up by the sea, going to watch AFC Bournemouth with my father and eventually seeing them promoted to the Premier League. Cruising around the coastline with my family when the children were young, then mooring up for picnics on the beach.

Q: What has been your proudest achievement?

A: Going from a small, secondhand furniture shop in Parley Cross, which I started together with my wife, to our present showrooms in Ferndown which employs over 45 staff, amongst them are my two daughters Susie and Sarah who are now directors of the company making it a real family business.

Q: Where did you get your inspiration from?

A: On leaving school I started an apprenticeship covering all aspects of the furniture trade in, what was then, Bournemouth’s most prestigious furniture store J.J. Allens. Having learnt the trade, so to speak, I had a burning desire to be the master of my own destiny and so decided to save hard and take the risk of starting our own business. A move which, despite the hard work, I have never regretted and still enjoy.

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

A: To relax with the family. In winter - walk in the countryside, have a lunch in a pub - in the summer - spend time in the garden or playing golf or tennis with my friends.

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

A: It has got to be La Mammas, an Italian restaurant, in Christchurch. A firm favourite with our family for the past 45 years, and where we experienced our first ever pizza! John the owner and his staff are always so friendly and attentive and the food is delicious.

Q: What three things do you associate with Dorset?

A: The amazing coastline; walking on the beautiful Purbeck Hills; charming villages with picturesque pubs and tea rooms.

A county where most people want to spend their holidays!

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

A: Diverse - such a huge variety of things to see and do throughout the county. We feel very privileged to live here.