10 Questions: Lorna Knapman

Lorna Knapman was a single mum on benefits seven years ago when she founded the Love Food Festival with some of her own savings and a grant from the Prince’s Trust. Since then there have been nearly 70 events everywhere from its original home in the Paintworks to the middle of Millennium Square.

Lorna is also creative director of the Food Connections, the revolutionary food festival that is currently taking place at venues across the city.

1) What was your earliest ambition?
Aged five, I wanted to set up a catalogue whereby people without food and water could order whatever they needed and pay for it in very small amounts. I couldn’t understand why so many people in the world were dying because they had nothing to eat or drink. I still don’t. 

2) How physically fit are you?
Reasonably, I walk and cycle lots getting to and from meetings and love walking my dog. I go to two pilates classes a week to keep my body strong and to remind me to breathe. I also love to go out dancing; music is a big part of my life. 

3) If you were mayor of Bristol for the day, what would you do?
I would give everyone a day off to take some time out of their busy lives, slow down, spend time with loved ones and enjoy a meal together, somewhere beautiful. The world is such an amazing place and all too often we rush around at warp speed and forget how blessed we are. If we lose sight of what a beautiful world we live in then it becomes less of a priority to protect it for future generations. 

4) Where is your favourite holiday destination?
As soon as I get any time off, I head to Dorset by First Great Western to see my family. The West Country is so lovely that I find it hard to leave! A day spent in my grandparents’ garden in Dorset is pretty much heaven. 

5) What’s your biggest extravagance?
It has to be food. I love trying out Bristol’s amazing independent eateries. There are so many talented and passionate chefs and food producers in Bristol, the countryside around the city provides chefs with some really great ingredients and because the city is so diverse, you can enjoy delicious dishes from all over the world. There is always a new gem to discover. 

6) In what place in Bristol are you happiest?
That’s really tough! There are so many great places. If I am with my boy and my dog Geoff in one of the many green spaces in the city then I am happy. Sitting somewhere near the water always makes me very peaceful too. 

7) What ambitions do you still have?
To be the very best I can and to keep following my heart and dreams. 

8) What is the greatest achievement of your life so far?
Raising my son Ned as a single parent. He is the inspiration for everything I do.  The experience has made me believe in myself and reminds me that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. 

9) Can you sum up Bristol in a sentence?
A brilliantly buzzing, creative, forward thinking, fun, colourful, beautiful place which I am very proud to call home. 

10) What is your favourite secret spot in Bristol?
I can’t tell you that! It won’t be a secret. The clue is in the picture.

 Photograph by Rachel Morris