FIVE MINUTES WITH

Andy Dingley, member of Chepstow Association of Steampunk Gentlefolk.

If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be and why?

I can think of a lot of people I wouldn’t like to be stuck in a lift with. But it would probably be Nick Clegg – he needs a damn ear-bending – and Cameron is beyond hope.

What is your biggest fear?

Range Rover petrol tanks – but that takes a while to explain.

Do you have any superstitions?

No. I’m a real scientist at heart. If someone told me there was a ghost in the room, I would run up to it and measure it.

If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

Given that he’s just died, it would be a Lou Reed song. Probably ‘Work’ from ‘Songs for Drella’ – it’s about what made Andy Warhol kick. A fantastic song to work to – driving you to get the job done.

What is the most expensive thing you’ve bought, not including property?

My new laser-cutting machine. I’ve just started a new business, mainly cutting wood. It took me a lot of time to save up the money and to find a good bargain on one. Hopefully I can make a living on it now.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

It’s a very common piece of advice – just do it. You will regret the things you didn’t do than the things you did do – you just go and do them.

What is your indulgence?

Books. I’ve got about 8,000 in the house.

What item could you not live without?

A rock and a piece of string. If you give me enough time, I can make everything I need.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Prevarication – not getting stuff started.

Where are you next going on holiday?

I’m going to drop myself in it now but Finland. Moomin World in Finland.