We’re loving getting to know our Hot 15 in the Man Of The Year competition a little better. Today we catch up with Sam and learn his thoughts on everyday heroism, educating children and what last made him cry…

What was your motivation for entering this competition?

My motivation is being successful. There is nothing more I strive in life than to succeed and better the life of myself and my family. Winning this competition would co-incide starting my own business this year on my road to success.

What’s your definition of a modern day hero?

A modern day hero would be someone who simply makes life better. A great example of this is the soldiers, firefighters and emergency services who put their lives on the line every day to make our life better and enable us to walk our home streets safely.  There really is no better hero.

What’s the most heroic thing you’ve ever done?

Late one evening I pop round to my parents house to collect a few pieces of paperwork. As I pull into their car park area, I notice a man and woman standing at the side of the road. Not thinking much of it at first I start to walk towards my parents house. Some sort of instinct kicked in that something wasn’t right and for some reason I turned around. I started to walk back towards where they were standing as it was dark and it really had a bad vibe. I was being quiet as I wanted to try and hear what was going on and it seemed the guy was asking some inappropriate questions. As I got closer I must have disturbed this unknown man as he started to move away. When I got to where they were standing,  the girl started to walk towards me looking very relieved that someone had interrupted him. I asked if she was ok and she said yes, but I could see she was scared. I knew she lived just down the road when I got close so I let her walk quickly into her house as she looked distressed. I on the other hand went after the unknown man whilst calling the police, who showed up within a few minutes. Would hate to think how that situation may have turned out!

How would your friends describe you in less than ten words?

A tall business man who doesn’t do things by half.

What’s your idea of a perfect date?

A perfect date for me is sitting in a beautiful restaurant with my beautiful partner Tory, looking out over the sea in Portugal, sipping some really good red wine enjoying some lovely food. Life doesn’t get better

When was the last time you cried?

The last time I cried was in the operating theatre. I’d been up for two long days watching Tory go through agony whilst in labour when they finally decided she needed a C section.  The whole thing was emotional but when they handed me my little Elsie I couldn’t keep it in.

Tell us a secret – something we’d never guess about you.

I’m really looking forward to learning how to play a saxophone when my uncle Michel wants to teach me!

What’s your biggest fear?

Level crossings. Hate those things with a passion!

Do you believe in destiny? Tell us why, or why not.

Of course everything happens for a reason. All you can do is live by these 3 rules and destiny will take its path – do good, be good, feel good.

If you could change the world one step at a time, where would you start?

I’d start by educating children in a better way. I feel children are not taught to deal with real world dilemmas.  Everything in our schooling system is based on an ideal world. That’s not how it is.

If someone made a movie of your life, who would play you and why?

Ray Winstone,  top bloke and a happy hammer!

Like what you hear? Don’t forget to vote for Sam as Man Of The Year 2015 and he could be gracing the cover of a Mills and Boon book next Valentine’s Day.

By The Mills & Boon team