Mark Van Baars

Born and bred in North London. Had a pub in Belgrave Square behind Harrods and after that a pub in North Finchley.

Postman for 30 years, loved being outside. Favourite food, jam on toast. Did have a Harley, love the speed.

My mum’s sister was living in Frinton and they were boat mad and built their own boats. My parents would take me out on the boat. We had lots of fun times doing all kinds of things; sailing, crabbing, fishing, even just rowing round the backwaters was fun.

Sailing… sailing makes me happy. I love the feeling when you get a gust of wind and the boat reacts really well, it’s quite surprising how quick they go. It’s the feeling you get, just the wind pushing you along. I like the freedom, you can go to places no one else can go.

The peace and quiet and being lost in the world is lovely.