Christmas Spotlight: John Durkan

If ever there was a year when we need some festive cheer, it’s 2020. So, for our annual advent calendar of Q&As with the region’s businesspeople, we’ve tried to focus on what brings you joy.

Every day in December, we’ll invite someone into the Christmas spotlight, with 10 quickfire questions…

Next up, it’s John Durkan, Managing Director from Switalskis Solicitors…

Complete the sentence: “If there’s one thing 2020 has taught me, it’s…”

Never take anything for granted and never doubt what can be achieved if collectively everyone pulls together.

If you could give a one-line shout out to your team, for how they’ve handled this year, what would you say?

Simply amazing and so proud of the can-do spirit shown by everyone at Switalskis.

Were you guilty of any lockdown splurges?

Nothing particularly lavish, but I must admit to binging on lots of chocolate, crisps, sweets and Netflix to help me get through lockdown!

In fewer than 50 words, summarise three things your business has to look forward to, in 2021.

How our team has dealt with Covid 19 has shown me that we employ a fantastic group of people who will in 2021, drive the firm to grow, innovate and evolve to grasp the ever-increasing opportunities that I believe are in our market place.

Which business do you think has gone above and beyond, this year?

Rather than a specific business, I would like to give massive credit to all those pubs, restaurants, cafes across Yorkshire who when they could not trade and were personally clearly going through a horrendous time, made meals for their local community and continue to do so. They have set an incredible example to all of us about how to act during difficult times.

What’s your oldest Christmas memory?

The excitement of that moment when you first wake up as a child and realise it’s Christmas morning and that Father Christmas has visited the night before and needing to bolt downstairs to see what presents he’s delivered.

What’s the one thing you could never be without, on your Christmas dinner plate?

It must be a bucket load of roast potatoes, it’s not Christmas dinner without them.

What’s your favourite Christmas tipple, film and tune?

My favourite Christmas film is the classic, It’s a Wonderful Life. Hearing Fairytale of New York by The Pogues in a pub on Christmas Day, whilst having a pint of Guinness.

What are you most looking forward to, about Christmas 2020?

Just having an extended break to recharge my batteries. It’s been a long year.

And a message to your friends, family, colleagues and peers as they welcome in 2021?

Taking inspiration from the 90’s pop group D-Ream, Things can only get better! I have no doubt that things will improve very soon, given the roll out of the vaccines on the horizon. We should also all take pride in the resolve we have shown to date and take that can-do attitude and confidence into the New Year.