Leading business people talk about their work and their lifestyle. Esther Ruggiero, owner of Droitwich-based Train 4 Security, and county businesswoman of the year, tells of her belief in training.

Where were you born?

I was born at home in Isleworth Middlesex, West London 40 years ago this year.

What was your first job?

My first job was working in my father's business (he's an optician)

Outside of this I worked for Marks and Spencer in Hounslow High Street. I absolutely loved the fast pace of retail.

What sort of car do you drive?

A silver Renault Megane convertible.

What is your greatest achievement?

Personal: My family is very important to me: having three happy healthy children is a great achievement.

Business: Winning Worcestershire Businesswoman of the Year in

June this year was such an amazing feeling.

What is your biggest regret?

Personal: Not going to university after my A-levels. I returned later as a mature student.

Business: Not becoming self-employed earlier.

Why did you go into your line of work?

My husband started the business in 1999 and I joined him in 2002. We are passionate about training and are convinced that high quality learning really can have a positive impact on people's lives.

What would you like to change about your life?

I'd like more hours in the day.

What do you do to relax?

I love spending time with family and friends, and especially enjoy weekends away and regular holidays.

Who is your best friend?

Phil, my husband.

Who is your greatest hero and why?

I have always thought Queen Victoria was an amazing character and have a passion for Victoriana; I'd wear a pink crinoline dress every day.

What is your biggest extravagance?

I have a fabulous beauty therapist who I see every week for various treatments; just bliss.

What would you do first if you won a million pounds?

Shriek very loudly and open a bottle of bubbly.

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