Everyone has their own little essentials in their handbag - we ask Holt businesswoman Sharon Sands to share hers

IT MIGHT not sound the most glamorous of careers, but for Sharon Sands, director of Thaxters Timber and Forestry, she wouldn’t have it any other way. The business in Holt was set up by her father and grandfather in 1968 and has recently undergone a relaunch under Sharon’s guidance.

“As a little girl I was always down at the yard, bagging up kindling or staining wood. I came back to the business 18 years ago after having my children and then 18 months ago my father, brother and uncle retired and I became one of the directors. We have also moved to a new premises so it has been a very busy time,” she says. “It is certainly a varied job and my main role is in the office, but I have just done my forklift licence, I cut timber, stain the sheds and do all sorts. I also love dealing with customers – especially those who’ve been with us since my grandfather’s days. It is important to understand all aspects of the business and it is good for the staff to see the bosses mucking in.”

When it comes to handbags, she is not loyal to one brand. “I change my handbag all the time, depending on the season, what I am wearing or where I am going. I am not fussy about labels, I pick things I like, but they do need to have lots of pockets to keep all my bits and pieces in.” w

Thaxters Timber and Forestry, Pippin Heath, Hunworth Road, Holt, NR25 6SS; 01263 713411; www.thaxterstimber.co.uk

Avon Ultra Glazewear Lipgloss, tickled pink, £6.50

I always have a lipstick to pop on if I am heading out. I used to be an Avon representative so I got to know their products and I really love this one, it is a great colour.

Polka dot purse, Cath Kidston, £34

I absolutely love spotty things, which is why I picked this purse. It is a red polka dot design and just the right size to fit into whatever handbag I am using that day.

Samsung Galaxy Ace mobile phone, from £49

My friends and family will laugh at this being an essential as I never remember to switch it on, which infuriates them. But I like to have it in case of emergencies. Of course it is pointed out by others that if they need me in an emergency it isn’t much help!

Diary, prices vary

I chose this because it is spotty. I put everything in my diary, not just my appointments, but also for my husband and my sons – even though they are grown up. I have to have everything written down.

Nail file, prices vary

In my job, I often break or catch a nail, so I always have a nail file ready to quickly smooth it off to prevent it getting worse. A wood yard isn’t the place to have nice nails.

And a little something else...

I always carry business cards and feel really proud of the company and my role as a director, although people are often a little surprised to see that I run a timber yard when I hand one out.