Chun Kong is a popular face in Cheltenham, and for good reason. His restaurant, The Mayflower, has been bringing delicious Cantonese cuisine to the town for over thirty years, and Chun himself has been involved in his local community for much of this time.

The Local Answer spoke to Chun to find out about his interests and what he gets up to on a rare day off.

What do you enjoy most about your role in Gloucestershire?

“Which one! I’m on the Board of Trustees of Gloucestershire Crimestoppers and the Board of Trustees of Fundraising at Maggie's.

"I’m also a Committee Member of Cheltenham Festivals and Committee Member of Cheltenham Business Luncheon Club – everything! Each role brings a different element to my life and it is very humbling to be included.”

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

“I enjoy eating out, shopping, going to the cinema, theatre and concerts.”

What’s your favourite place to visit in Gloucestershire?

“Wherever there's a foodie place that's worth visiting!”

What’s your favourite place to eat in Gloucestershire?

“I prefer to visit independent business and support them whenever I can.”

Do you support any local sports teams?

“Living in Cheltenham and Gloucestershire you have to keep up with the progress of Cheltenham Town and Gloucester Rugby.”

What do you miss about Gloucestershire when you’re away?

“The friendly faces and the cheerful smiles. It is something that's irreplaceable and not the same anywhere else.”

Are you a film or a book person?

“Definitely more of a film person.”

What’s your favourite film?

‘You've Got Mail’, ‘Groundhog Day’ and ‘Gladiator’ are three of my favourites, because they have romance, integrity, passion, loyalty, believing, kindness and faith!”

What’s your favourite book?

“Animal Farm because I passed my school exams on it!”

Do you ever attend any shows in Gloucestershire?

“Yes, all the time at the Everyman Theatre. I’ve also been on the Board of Directors there since 1994.”

What achievement are you most proud of?

“Being the founder of The Mayflower Restaurant back in 1982 and being able to work with my family every day since.”

What’s the best thing about running a restaurant?

“No two days are the same and I get to meet people from all walks of life and understand them better.”

Do you enjoy being involved in your local community?

“A big yes! Cheltenham is our home and Hong Kong is our roots and there's no greater pleasure in giving something back to the community that has given us so much.”