My Monmouthshire Life (From Free Press Series)

My Monmouthshire Life

Simon Brown is the current chair of Monmouthshire Festival Committee, and has been involved in the festival since 1998.

As an architectural consultant and project manager, he specialises in ecological design in and around the county.

Simon, 53, has lived in Monmouth and the Forest of Dean since 1980, and has been involved in a wide range of community projects and initiatives over that time. The festival brings together his love of music, performance, project management, team-work and drinking. He is also a keen gardener and photographer.

What do you like most about Monmouthshire?

The scenery.

Are there any down points?

We always seem to to be late to new technology like digital tv and broadband.

Where would you recommend for an unforgettable dining experience in Monmouthshire?

Bar snacks at the Clytha Arms take some beating, for atmosphere, taste and value.

What is your favourite book and why?

Sometimes a Great Notion, Ken Kesey's follow-up to One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, partly because it gripped me so hard that I read it in one sitting. and partly because it's a great romp around west coast America.

Who would be your ideal companion on a trip around Monmouthshire and why?

Phil Munday, Church Street's favourite fruiterer. One of the funniest people I know and a fellow Londoner. On second thoughts, I wouldn't see much through the tears...

Favourite music and why?

Live in Europe by the Grateful Dead. It is music that is simply impossible to better... and I'm an old hippy at heart!

Favourite town in Monmouthshire and why?

Well, it has to be Monmouth - just look at its medieval layout and the patina of all those fabulous old buildings. Shame about the new ones though... they really could be so much better.

Which Monmouthshire landmark or attraction is a must see?

It's difficult to beat the view from the top of the Kymin - in sun or mist, summer or winter.

If there is one thing missing from Monmouthshire, what is it?

A Wye Valley rail link. What a shame that Dr Beeching had so little future vision. Oh, and 'the Dead' playing Monmouth...

What annual event in Monmouthshire is a must?

Monmouth Festival! Go to www.monmouthfestival.co.uk - you'll soon see why, if you don't already know. Still crazy after all these years...