What do your clothes mean to you?

I think your clothes reflect your character. If people tell you that you look good, then you feel good, it gives you some kind of buzz.

I’ve heard that you’ve got a good eye for a bargain, is that true?

When I go into a shop I’m instantly attracted to the Sale Rail. It’s like it’s whispering to me, “come towards me, come and look at me!” It means that you get quality clothing without having to pay the full price which can be very expensive these days. And of course these days we could all do with watching our pennies.

What’s the best bargain you’ve ever had?

After I’ve been shopping I always keep the labels so that I can see how much I’ve saved. This purple suit was originally £500, but you won’t believe this, I only paid £25 for it. I feel great when I wear this suit.

Where has you interest in clothes come from?

That’s a big question. I had an older sister that lost a young child. She was very wise and I remember her telling me at that time, “Wear your best clothes now as it gives you the confidence to deal with any difficulties”. I’d like to think, that by now, I have enough clothes to deal with anything life throws at me.

What pleasure do you get from you clothes?

Every Sunday after attending Chapel I go and visit my 94 year old brother. He’s very quite and doesn’t say much anymore and has no interest in anything, but when I visit, his eyes seem to light up. He likes to touch materials like satin and if I’m wearing a scarf or something similar it obviously gives him pleasure, and so that gives me pleasure.

This suit and scarf are wonderful, where did you get them from?

I bought this suit quite recently in Llandudno and then I bought the scarf in York. The scarf’s satin so my brother loves it.

Are you always smartly dressed?

Yes I am. I used to be a social worker but after I retired I did voluntary work. As you get older the fact that you get up in the morning, get dressed, put on you make-up and go out of the house is great – and I think that dressing smartly gives you pleasure in life.