What makes the West Country "home" to you?

I have travelled extensively, even spending time working overseas, but have always found myself drawn back to Bristol where my home and heart is – for me, it's the most beautiful part of England.

Tell us about your job.

I'm a contemporary jewellery designer working exclusively with silver, semi-precious stones, Swarovski crystals and cultured freshwater pearls. Items can be bought directly, or customers can be involved in the design process by selecting their own elements which are then handcrafted into a bespoke piece of jewellery.

What's your earliest memory?

The red funnel of a steam boat on the Thames when my father took me proudly to London for his first day out with his daughter when I was three.

Who do you admire, living or dead, and why?

My parents – my father, who sadly died four years ago, for teaching me to follow my passion and never give up, which is how he lived his life. My mother, whom I adore, for her energy and enthusiasm for life and her constant belief and support for her three children.

What or who is the love of your life?

My wonderful children, my husband and Murphy, the cat.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Barack Obama – such an inspirational man.

What law would you introduce if you were in charge?

One simple piece of legislation – that all broadcast news programmes should contain at least one positive story. Doom and gloom breeds negativity that is bad for society and bad for the economy.

What's your favourite record or piece of music?

Miserere by Allegri.

What's your favourite book?

There are too many to choose from, but one that comes to mind is Jitterbug Perfume by Tom Robbins.

What would be your idea of perfect happiness?

To live in a peaceful world.

What would you like to be doing in five years' time?

To have expanded my business without losing the personal touch.

What is your worst habit?

Eating chocolate.

What possession could you not live without?

My jewellery!

What is your greatest frustration?

Not having enough hours in the day.

What would you eat and drink as your last meal?

A glass of champagne with a good old-fashioned roast dinner.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life?

More sunshine.

What talent do you wish you had?

I wish I could play the piano like Jools Holland.

How do you relax?

With my feet up and my kids, cats, dog and husband around me.

What's the most valuable lesson life has taught you?

You make your living by what you get, but you make your life by what you give.

How would you like to be remembered?

Well, I'm known by my family and friends as "the jewellery lady" and affectionately as "the mad cat woman" – I only have seven cats. I guess I'd be happy with that.

Catherine Amesbury's range of jewellery – including an exclusive range of wedding jewellery – can be viewed and bought at www.catherineamesbury.com and at her Bristol showroom. Customers can be directly involved in the design process to create a piece of hand-made jewellery unique to them.

Catherine is currently displaying her work with six other artists at the Spring Reflections exhibition at Bristol Guild in the Guild Gallery, Top Floor, 68/70 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5JY. The exhibition runs until March 21 and details of Catherine's other exhibitions throughout the year can be found on her website.