Regular saver gives extravagant spending the chop

ME & MY MONEY: Neven Maguire, Celebrity chef

ME & MY MONEY:Neven Maguire, Celebrity chef

1. Are you a saver or a spender?

A bit of both. I have a credit union account and have a monthly direct debit that goes in for a rainy day.

2. Do you shop around for better value?

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Always. I am very conscious of supporting local businesses but I do keep an eye on value for money.

3. What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?

The engagement ring I gave Amelda and it was worth every penny. And I am not telling anybody how much it cost, and that includes Amelda.

4. What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

I have a Charvet kitchen in MacNean House Restaurant. It is the kitchen I always wanted and it works very well for our needs with usually about 60 people dining in the restaurant.

5. Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?

Blacklion is quite literally on the Border. And thankfully people cross the Border to eat here. Enniskillen is 10 miles away and is my local town. That is where I did my training as a chef.

6. Do you haggle over prices?

Not usually, apart from when it is expected on holidays.

7. Has the recession changed your spending habits?

Of course it has. It has changed everyone. Value for money has become much more important. I am much more likely to think twice and ask: Do I really need that? People have become more cautious.

8. Do you invest in shares?

No.

9. Cash or card?

Credit card mostly. Seeing the statement in the post keeps me sensible. My spending is there in black and white.

10. How much money do you have on you now?

A €20 note and 50 cents in coins