ITV Calendar News reporter and presenter Sally Simpson loves living in Yorkshire.
How I spend my days
As a journalist for ITV News, no two days are ever the same. I could be in the studio presenting our 6pm programme, or out covering the biggest stories and meeting some of the most interesting people anywhere in the region - everyone has a story to tell.
Friday nights - cocktails or chill?
After a busy week out and about for work, Fridays are for getting cosy at home. I love the big ITV dramas or a good comedy series to unwind with. I gave up alcohol more than three years ago, but there are some great alternatives out there, so I still enjoy a glass of fizz!
Saturday morning parkrun or papers?
Anyone who knows me will testify am I no runner but I do love getting out and about in the lovely places Yorkshire has to offer. I like to earmark Saturdays for family days out, whether it's to the seaside or the grounds of a stately home - ideally where my nine-year-old can have a run about too. Every few weeks I'll work a weekend, so that could mean reading the news or being a roving reporter with my camera - that's when multi-tasking really happens!
Feeding time
Food is one of my greatest pleasures and although I love having friends round for dinner or baking tasty treats at home, my happy place is in a lovely cafe with a cappuccino and a toasted teacake. I'd love to own my own tearoom one day. There are so many great ones to choose from but one of my favourites is Olivia's Tearooms at Riccall. For a special occasion, Burro is in the same village and does the best authentic Italian food.
Retail therapy
Fashion is a real passion of mine and in 2021 I started an Instagram blog - @mymidlifestylish - mainly to encourage me to wear more of my wardrobe. I keep my favourite pieces for years and my style is mainly a mixture of sale bargains and wardrobe finds. I love rummaging through charity shops and browsing little boutiques - there are some great ones in Selby. For that special outfit, my favourite designer is Blonde & Wise based in Gomersal.
Saturday night perfection
Getting dressed up and not having to think about cooking is a real treat so a meal out with the family would be my ideal evening. Top it off with a night in a massive bed in a lovely hotel and that is perfection - I love a good night's sleep! I know it's a cliche but Paris is my go-to weekend break destination - or a coastal spot in Yorkshire where I can wake up to a sea view.
Sunday relaxation
I hate to waste a sunny day so if the weather is good we'll be out and about again, perhaps pottering through the streets of somewhere like Pateley Bridge or Knaresborough. I love being by the water so anywhere with a pretty river makes for a great walk. At the end of the day I like the idea of cooking a Sunday roast, but the pubs all do it better than me! I'm also in a book group so I try to find time for an hour or so reading before bed.
Hopes for the year ahead
My husband has just started his own estate agency business so we're both excited to see it take off next year. We'll have to start thinking about high school choices for our son, which is insane because it feels like five minutes since he was at nursery! And there are exciting new projects coming at work so it's looking like a busy one. It's a good job I've got lots of holidays in the sun booked already!
