Alex Toohey is 39, and lives in Douglas with his wife Kathryn.

He works as an assistant investment manager, and is also currently the vice-chairman of Marown Parish Commissioners.

Alex has been ’treading the boards’ since 2002 and will be playing the role of the chess Grand Master Anatoly Sergievsky in the Manx Operatic Society’s production of the musical ’Chess’ at the Gaiety Theatre, which runs until Saturday, April 28.

What is your idea of a perfect meal?

Being a South African born by the sea I am a big fan of all meat and seafood! So it has to be any ’surf and turf’ combo meal washed down with a nice full-bodied red.

What is your favourite way to relax?

I really find cycling a good way to relax and let off steam. I’m cycling the Ride London in July this year and I find it therapeutic being exposed to fresh air and my own thoughts during my hours of training.

What is your greatest extravagance?

It would have to be flying Business Class to New York in 2016 to celebrate our first wedding anniversary.

What is your greatest achievement?

I don’t consider it an achievement as such, more of a privilege, but caring for my mum in the final weeks of her battle with cancer.

What is your favourite time of the year?

I’m a big family man so it must be Christmas for me. I love the magic of it all, the family gatherings and being able to spoil loved ones.

What is the first job you ever had?

My first job was delivering the Courier newspaper. I can’t remember the year but I got paid 2p for every paper delivered plus an extra 1p if there was an insert. I think I got something like £8 per week on average.

Do you have any irrational fears?

Heights. And flying. I don’t let my mild fear of flying stop me. There is not a hope, however, that I will ever do a bungee jump or skydive. I even go weak at the knees on the top of tall buildings.

What is your worst habit?

Ashamed to admit it but I occasionally bite my nails. I put that down to my nervous disposition.

What is your favourite book?

I enjoy reading anything by John Grisham plus a selection of other crime writers.

What is your favourite TV programme?

Game of Thrones. I’m also enjoying The Crown.

What is your favourite band/artist at the moment?

Elvis Presley! I’m not sure if he’s of the ’moment’ but now and then there is a new release of his music.

What is your favourite part of the Isle of Man?

A favourite spot of mine is West Baldwin near St Luke’s church where Kathryn and I married. We’re very lucky to live on an island that is so peaceful and tranquil.

What is the last show/band that you saw live?

Peter Pan by The Christine Wild Theatre School. For the size of the Island I think we’re very lucky to have such a high level of cultural talent on our doorstep.

If time/money were no object, what would be your perfect day?

Being able to experience my wedding day again would be priceless.

Choose three people, dead or alive, to invite to dinner?

Elvis Presley, Nelson Mandela and my mum. Elvis to provide the entertainment, Nelson the words of wisdom and my mum purely because I miss her. Plus she was the life and soul of any party.

Which do you prefer:

Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings? Lord of the Rings

Cats or dogs? Dogs

Birthday or Christmas? Christmas

Starter or pudding? Starter

Quiet night in or night out? Quiet night in