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Meet Julia Downs

What is your name?
Julia Downs

What do you do?
I’m the Front of House Supervisor, reporting to Olivia Thackstone, Front of House Manager. I oversee the day to day operations of the Front of House Hosts, the Tour Guides and the Creative Studios areas.

What do you like most about your job?
I really enjoy meeting the visitors. They come from all over the world and it’s fascinating to learn about where they’re from and their reasons for visiting World of Wedgwood. Seeing their enjoyment makes me feel really proud to be part of such an iconic brand.

I also work with a really great team of colleagues, we laugh together; cry together and we’re always there for one another; each day brings a different challenge and no two days are the same.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I enjoy walking and I’ve recently joined Newcastle and Stoke Ramblers. It’s a great way to spend a Sunday, although not always easy in the winter months when you’re up to your ankles in mud! I’ve just become a grandma for the first time so love spending time with my granddaughter Orla.

Who inspires you?
Josiah Wedgwood of course. You just have to admire his integrity, passion, and endurance; always wanting to achieve perfection and with a determination to ‘be the best’. Above all, he was a family man who cared deeply for his wife and children.

Give an interesting fact about yourself
In 1995 I won the ‘Coronation Street’ quiz at Pontins Holiday camp, Southport. There was stiff competition from a packed hall of northern folk.

What is the best concert you have been to?
1972 seeing Slade at the Victoria Hall, Hanley supported by Thin Lizzy. I loved Noddy Holder….. I think it was the side burns!

Where’s your favourite place in the world?
Cape Cod, Massachusetts – lovely people, glorious landscapes and delicious lobster rolls.

At which shop would you like to max-out your credit card?
John Lewis – everything a girl needs and then something nice to eat and drink to recover from the serious shopping. Having just become a nana, I love the baby and children’s department. I can’t believe some people spend as much on a pram as I did on my first car!

What was your favourite TV programme when you were growing up?
I have to confess it was It’s a Knock Out – I loved all those ridiculous outfits worn by the contestants and the more they fell over the funnier it was, and, of course, Eddie Waring’s commentary - he had such an infectious laugh.

What would your specialist subject be if you were on Mastermind?
Eurovision Song Contest 1968 – 1985. I watch Eurovision every year, much to the annoyance of my husband.

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