Getting to know Alex Horne, our new Director

Now that our new Director, Alex Horne has got his feet firmly under the desk, we thought you would like to know the man behind the suit.  So, we made him a cup of coffee and plied him with biscuits to persuade him to take five minutes out of his busy day to answer some of our searching questions! 

What did you want to be when you were a child? 

Well, I felt that I had two callings – either to be a vicar or an engineer!  As I progressed through my education both fell slightly by the wayside when I discovered I had a passion for both business and helping people.  The fact that I ended up in a profession that helps people buy and sell that most precious commodity – their home, is a privilege that is never lost on me.  (I also still get to indulge my amateur engineer by tinkering with cars). 

Favourite UK destination?

Portmeirion.   It is such a unique place, a private village, designed and purpose built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the 1920s.  Set on its own peninsula nestled beneath the majestic Snowdonia mountains, when the sun is shining, you could be forgiven for thinking you were on the Italian Riviera.  When we’re there my wife and I love wandering through the woodland before enjoying the views from the hotel with a cheeky cocktail. 

Town or Country? 

That is a tricky one as both obviously have their virtues.  Cosmopolitan living offers easy access to restaurants, cafes, theatre, shops and so much more.  So urban life does really have an appeal for a sociable chap like me.  I do think on balance however, country life is more for me.  Long walks in the open countryside, air that somehow smells fresher and crisper, drives down charming winding lanes and of course, a good old fashioned English country pub where the roast dinners taste all the better for not having cooked them yourself! 

What does a lovely day off look like for you? 

My life is rather hectic with a busy professional and family life, so should one of those rare days come my way where there is not a list of jobs to be ticked off, I love nothing better than making myself a coffee on a warm summer’s day and settling down in the garden to read a good book.  Whether it be fiction or non-fiction, there is nothing like a well written book to transport you to another world and help you recharge your batteries. 

Favourite hobby? 

I have rather a passion for cars and have a particular penchant for modern classics.  A number of years ago my passion for tinkering was given free rein when I purchased and restored a Series 1 Land Rover.

Who living or not would you invite to a fantasy dinner party?

My ultimate dinner party would be full of scintillating conversation, hilarious anecdotes and a dash of slapstick comedy.  With that it mind, I think the perfect blend of guests would be Brian Cox – a fascinating mind and an insight into the world of 90s dance music to boot;  Martin Lewis – because who doesn’t want to know how to save a few pounds?  David Mitchell and Prunella Scales because their sharp wit would keep the spark alive at any dinner party.  Also, Bertha Benz because even though her husband invented the first automobile, she was the first to take it on a long journey!   My final, but by no means least important guest would be the inimitable Basil Brush – boom boom!! 

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? 

As you will have guessed, I am a huge fan of Portmeirion, so if they would allow me, I would happily live there. 

Savoury or Sweet

I don’t really have a sweet tooth, so for me treats tend to be savoury – olives or a good cheese board always satisfy my taste buds. 

Best night out? 

A meal at my favourite country pub, The Grosvenor Arms in Aldford with my family and closest friends – I may even invite Tim if he’s lucky!

What is you taste in music? 

I have a rather eclectic taste in music from classical to the masters of 70s and 80s pop – Fleetwood Mac.  I have also been known to throw some shapes to a rather special dance music DJ!* 

Hopefully you all feel like you know Alex a little better now and we will leave you with a fun fact: not only are Tim and Alex bonded by a shared love of estate agency, a deep friendship and a long standing professional relationship, they also have another thing in common – famous siblings!  Tim’s younger brother, Adam was a 90s pop star and acted in Coronation Street and Hollyoaks, whilst Alex’s younger sister is the world famous dance music DJ Lottie!* 

Welcome to Rickitt Partnership Alex.