UP CLOSE: Danny Perrin, Shepton Mallet branch manager for Charles Barnard Estate Agents

Shepton Mallet Nub News aims to support our community, promoting shops, businesses, charities, clubs and sports groups.

We will be profiling some of these businesses and organisations regularly in a feature called 'Up Close in Shepton Mallet'.

We caught up with Danny Perrin, the Charles Barnard Estate Agents Shepton Mallet branch manager.

In this feature, he talks about his estate agency career to date and how much he loves working the town.

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Have you always lived in the Shepton Mallet area and, if not, what were the key considerations about moving here?

No, I grew up in Ston Easton around 10 minutes from Shepton Mallet and currently live on the outskirts of Wells. I do have family roots within Shepton Mallet as my Grandad (Daniel Perrin) was born and raised on Eastfield.

Tell is a bit about your personal business background Danny, and how you came to be the branch manager for Charles Barnard Estate Agents in Shepton Mallet?

I starting out as an apprentice for Debbie Fortune Estate Agents in Chew Magna close to 10 years ago before moving up north to Manchester where I worked through the ranks of an independent estate agents from sales negotiator to branch manager of their then new flagship office in the city centre. Since the pandemic family has never felt so important so we made the decision to venture back to Wells. While back in Wells I have worked in North Bristol before jumping at the chance to manage the Shepton Mallet branch of Charles Barnard Estate Agents.

What do you like about Shepton Mallet? How are you involved in the local community?

Shepton Mallet is a wholesome and down to earth town full of characters and salt of the earth people. But what I like most about Shepton Mallet is the sense of community spirit - wherever and whenever somebody needs help or support, the response and helpfulness of our town is unbelievable.

I try to get involved with the local community as much as I can. We are taking part in the Shepton Mallet Wanderland which involves decorating out window display for all to see from the 25th – 28th November. See www.makethesunshine.co.uk for more information and to get involved.

The coronavirus pandemic has had an impact on many businesses and organisations - what are your plans?

Our plans are the same as before but with added safety measures. We will continue to provide the best customer service and advice to all our clients and would be clients but making sure everyone is safe in either the house they are viewing, the property they are valuing or even when clients come into the office. It is still a difficult time for a lot of people and if we can make people at ease by our care and dedication then we will come through it even stronger.

What businesses do you like and use in Shepton Mallet?

I visit Denela's Bakery on the High Street more times than I should but the pastries just keep calling me. I have used The Shepton Cobblers on several occasions and always find the service first class.

The lockdown was very difficult for many people - how do you think that Shepton Mallet as a town coped?

Due to the nature of Shepton Mallets residents, the town coped (and is coping) very well. I have seen people be given a wide berth while walking which is good to see as well as residents still choosing to wear face masks. It is really important that now more so than ever everyone feels safe when they are out and about. It's the only way our town will recover.

If there was one thing in the town you would change, what would it be?

I have always thought that it would be a wonderful idea to make the High Street pedestrianised. An image of cafes with some chairs and tables outside with family and friends enjoying each other's company is one I would like to see.

Shepton Mallet and the area around it is beautiful - what is your favourite place and why?

My favourite place in Shepton Mallet is Collett Park. It is so nice to walk around on a brisk morning and watch the wildlife. It's a lovely park and one we are lucky to have.

If you could choose an actor to play you in a movie about your life, who would it be and why?

I would have to say James Corden. The way he portrayed Smithy in Gavin and Stacey was incredible. I never take myself too seriously, life's too short to be down so I hope James Corden will capture my character and provide some laughs along the way.