NELL GIFFORD IS the creative genius behind Giffords Circus. Established in 2000, Giffords Circus is a small circus company that delivers circus and theatre fusion to the villages and market towns of the south west. It combines dance, comedy, horses and live music in a two hour show, located on village greens in a small white tent surrounded by handmade burgundy and gold showman’s wagons. You may visit the Giffords website here.

1. Are you happy? I have no idea but I am indestructible.

2. What are you reading at the moment? The Golden Hands Complete Book of Crafts.

3. What was your worst job? On the fourth floor of Harvey Nichols in a pair of boots one size too small and a continual hangover.  Worse for my manager though. I was a disgrace.

4. How many hours do you work each day? Between two and 16 depending on the time of year.

5. Town mouse or country mouse? Both.

6. Does love bring happiness or misery? Happiness.

7. Mp3 or vinyl, real or e book? Real books and Radio 4. Live music late and loud.

8. What are your three greatest pleasures? Exploring the valleys around Stroud with Toti, my husband, and our children on Shetlands, me on my feet, and an OS map. Sewing. Drinking champagne with best friends.

9. Do you believe in the nap? Yes and I could not function without it.

10. What advice do you have for young people? Work hard, don’t worry about burning out. Bringing yourself back from the brink will be the last stage of growing up. Stay in touch with friends.

Nell is coming to the Idler for a one-off talk to John Mitchinson about her career in the circus and her influences from childhood to adulthood. To find out more and book follow the link to the right.