If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be and why?

Ian Hislop, editor of Private Eye. It’s my favourite magazine and I’d love to hear how an edition gets put together every fortnight. I bet he could share some funny stories.

What is your biggest fear?

Every pub in Cwmbran closing.

Where else can you go and stand next to a police officer, an unemployed man, a man who has been in jail and a company boss on a six figure salary? Pubs are where people mix and make friends and it doesn’t matter where you live or what you do.

Do you have any superstitions?

It’s not really a superstition but if I ever spot a horse with Mollie in the name I have to bet on it. My daughter is called Mollie and she is six.

I’ve never had a winner yet but will keep trying.

If you could have only one song on your iPod, what would it be and why?

Don’t Be Shy, by Cat Stevens. You can’t be shy if you want to get ahead. We’ve all been nervous about making a phone call but simply don’t be shy, pick up the phone and do it.

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought, not including property?

An iPad. I bought one a few years ago and have used it constantly so price per use is probably a fraction of a penny. I like having fast access to the internet.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Write down and keep every phone number you get given. Seriously. Never throw away a phone number.

What’s your indulgence?

Real ale and pubs. If I go somewhere new I’ve got a pretty good nose for finding a decent pub. I’m off to Devon soon and have already marked up some pubs I fancy visiting.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I’d like to be more organised. It’s impossible to do everything so being more organised about getting the important things done would be brilliant.

Where are you next going on holiday?

A caravan site in Devon for a long weekend. We’ve been there a few times before and the clubhouse has finally started to stock real ale.

Read more of Ben's take on Cwmbran here cwmbranlife.wordpress.com