John Watterson, Isle of Man Newspapers sports editor (and TT News editor), has covered the TT and all local motorcycling events (along with other sports) since the 1970s.

John describes himself as 'a Peel man through and through’.

What is your idea of a perfect meal?

Any type of food in the company of good friends. I have a great appetite!

What is your favourite way to relax?

Riding my bicycle (on road and off) or running/walking over the beautiful hills of the Isle of Man.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Six bicycles and two motorbikes; and many thousands of photographic images.

Do you have any pets?

A seagull named Roger.

What is your greatest achievement?

Phew. Tough one, but probably cycling to the Dordogne three years ago with three close friends.

What is your favourite time of the year?

Any time really, I like all of the seasons, but I guess Spring is best when the garden and the island comes to life. As it is right now.

What is the first job you ever had?

Apprentice compositor, Isle of Man Examiner, Weekly Times and Manx Star, 1973, aged 15.

Do you have any irrational fears?

Getting old.

What is your worst habit?

Work.

What is your favourite book?

Anything TT-related or local history. I particularly enjoy autobiographies.

What is your favourite TV programme?

The News, Countryfile and anything involving David Attenborough.

What is your favourite band/artist at the moment?

George Ezra, Adele.

What is your favourite part of the Isle of Man?

Peel Hill and the Ayres.

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

Chris Rea and Queen on consecutive nights in Birmingham last December. Both great gigs.

What would be your perfect day?

Breakfast in the Seychelles, a day’s skiing or cycling in the Alps, and watching the sun set from my balcony in Peel.

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

Mike Hailwood, Clint Eastwood and my great grandfather.

Which do you prefer:

Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings? Neither.

Cats or dogs? Both.

Birthday or Christmas? The latter.

Starter or pudding? Pudding.

Quiet night in or night out? Quiet night in.