Bob Waddell

HCSA Trustee

What are you most proud of?

The 43 years which I spent working in NHS Procurement – been there, seen it, done it, loved it! Now enjoying my retirement but busier than I was when I was working full time!

Being awarded a Fellowship from CIPS and also being made a Freeman of the Newcastle Ravens RFC

What makes you angry?

Discrimination against people for whatever reason. Cruelty to people and insensitivity to the fact that everyone is different.

What sports team do you support (if any)

I am so proud to be a member and a past Chair of the Newcastle Ravens RFC. The Ravens have been dear to my heart for many years and are the only LGBT+ and Inclusive Rugby Club in the North East of England. The club was originally set up to enable Gay Men to play rugby in a non-threatening environment which was at that time lacking in main stream teams. A lot has happened since then and the Ravens are members of both International Gay Rugby (IGR) and also the Northumberland RFU and are fully integrated with teams in Northumberland.

What famous person would you like to meet and why?

Miriam Margoyles as I think that she would be the most amazing company with the rich life she leads and the stories which she could tell! I love watching her documentaries on TV

What superpower would you most like to have and why?

The ability to see into the future – not just for the lottery numbers but to make less mistakes!

What historical figure do you most admire and why?

Robert Baden-Powell as I was involved in the Scout Movement for many years and I admire him for setting it up and the work which it does for young people.

What’s your perfect weekend?

Takeaway food with trashy telly on a Friday evening followed by a good game of rugby watching the Ravens hopefully win on a Saturday and then a few sociable beers in town in the evening!

What’s your favourite meal?

Love a good curry but will try anything once

Can you describe yourself in one word?

OLD! But very young in mind and sprit

What do you hope to be doing 5 years from now?

Still be here hopefully! I intend to enjoy my retirement with my dear partner of 30 years and travel to interesting places but I still want to retain my connection with HCSA as this is something which I can relate to and really enjoy.