Sally-Ann Hart is a familiar face around Rye and Hastings where she is the local Conservative MP. Having met her at a few functions I was impressed at her involvement with the people of the area. She really cares and is interested to listen to people’s concerns. This made me ask, “What is the private person behind the public face really like?”
I asked Sally-Ann some questions.
What would be your favourite day out
All my family together for lunch outside on a warm spring or summer Sunday followed by a walk around Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, along the Royal Military Canal at Winchelsea, or in Brede Woods (especially when the bluebells are in full glory) to name a few of our favourite walks - and afterwards reading the Sunday papers!
What three words describe you best?
Compassionate, diligent, loyal (my husband helped here!)
If you could change one historical event, what would it be?
Hitler coming to power which had such horrendous consequences for so many people in Europe and at home. The Holocaust and the Nazis’ incomprehensible cruelty, torture and treatment of fellow human beings, and the unfathomable evil perpetrated, is a bloody stain on human history.
What is one item on your bucket list?
To visit South America, particularly Peru and Mexico, to see the archaeological sites of the Incas, Mayans and Aztec civilisations. I am fascinated by ancient history and how humans lived in the past. My family gets very bored when we visit museums, Roman sites and so on as I get lost in time and lose all sense of time.
What is a habit that you picked up from your parents?
Well certainly not being late everywhere (apart from when I am lost in time!) – I get stressed if I am late because I spent my childhood and teen years always being late. On the positive side, my parents had a strong work ethic and really valued family – two good habits I picked up. We always ate together which is where all sorts of discussions would take place, from faith to politics. I have three sisters, so often these discussions were quite noisy as we all tried to get ourselves heard… I was actually the quiet one. Believe it or not, I hate confrontation!
What brings you the most joy?
My family – the most important thing in the world is family and love. I love my friends too - my family and friends help keep me grounded.
Whose advice do you value the most?
My father’s. He died a few years ago and I really do miss his intelligence, his logic, his innate goodness and his unconditional love. He gave objective and considered advice when I asked for it, not in a preachy way, but in a thoughtful, questioning way. Even today, in my working life I sometimes think, now what would daddy do?
What is the most important trait you have?
Quiet determination.
What smell do you associate with childhood?
The smell of mown grass – just love it. I can close my eyes, breathe it in and just be.
If you could learn one skill instantly, what would it be?
Teleportation – so I can cram more into my day and not waste time getting there! Seriously, to be able to play a musical instrument. I learned the piano as a child but never got to grips with it. I would love to play a musical instrument competently - it is such a skill.
What word or words would you eliminate from the English language?
‘Stupid’. I would not let my children call each other names. It is demeaning. ‘Can’t’. There is no such thing as ‘can’t’.
Who would you like to sit next to on a bench and have a conversation with, alive or dead?
Martin Luther King. I think he must have been an amazing person; he helped change US history for the better and fought for equality: ‘Love is the only force capable of turning an enemy into a friend’.
Goals yet to achieve?
Eradication of poverty and disadvantage in Hastings and Rye. So much to do, so little time to do it.
What is the best thing you own?
My physical and mental health.
What is your pet hate? What would you put in Room 101?
Anti-social and inconsiderate car drivers/motorcycle riders.
Your favourite place in the world?
Hastings and Rye!
