Spotlight on Andrew Gray

Andrew became a Partner in Kirkpatrick & Hopes in 1995 before taking over the management of the firm in 2003. He is now the Chairman & Business Development Director and also acts as Client Director to many of K&H’s major clients.

I hear you used to ride a motorcycle?
Yes, I was a keen motorcyclist as a teenager having bought a very cheap bike, but the front wheel fell off when I was in mid-air following a jump, and on landing the front forks ploughed two long furrows into the ground. Thankfully I survived without too much injury.

Your mode of transport has changed somewhat recently.
Yes, I sold my car because I hardly ever used it and now cycle to work, and elsewhere most of the time. This saves me time and a lot of money!

Cycling obviously keeps you fit. Do you have other ‘keep fit’ routines?
Yes, running and swimming when I can fit it in… I also do a routine of exercises/stretches twice a day. I do reps of these based on multiples of my age (47) – so every year I stretch myself further!

You’ve just completed your second Reading half-Marathon. Did you find it any easier than last year?
Yes, I did. I got stuck in a slower group at the start so my early stages were slower than they could have been, but at least it meant I had the energy to finish the race more strongly.

You must have had to put in a lot of training in preparation?
Yes – see ”all runs” on the Nike website for details!

Do you think you will enter again next year?
Yes.

You’re a ManU supporter – do you get to any of the matches?
I have seen a couple this year. I should try to go more often. Live matches are a totally different experience to watching on TV.

What was the last book you read?
I am in the middle of God is Not Great and The E-Myth Accountant at present.

Do you have a favourite TV programme?
The Wire, but I like most HBO programmes and UK cult comedies like Peep Show, Green Wing etc.

You enjoy cooking – do you have a favourite or signature dish?
I eat a lot of salads with fresh, raw organic contents. Most Sundays I make pizzas for the family from scratch using dough from the bread machine.

Do you have any favourite place in Britain?
I love London: concerts, theatre, cinemas, etc.

Have you got any money-making tips that you’d like to share?
Sell your car! And never borrow money for anything that won’t generate income or grow in value.

Any short-term – or long-term – plans?
Becoming debt-free – personally and for K&H (hopefully in the medium not long term), getting fitter and healthier, keep learning more and using my knowledge/experience to help others, perhaps through voluntary work.

See Andrew’s marathon photo here

Andrew lives in Caversham with partner Jackie and their 3 children Elizabeth, Alex and Theo.