26 Jul 2025
We ask a different figure from the local community to choose 10 questions to answer from a list of 50. This week: Laura Dawson, founder and owner of much-loved ice cream shop Darlish, currently scooping from Christopher Place Shopping Centre.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
As I’m getting older I’m making a point of taking vitamins and supplements and I make a cup of tea and I get straight back into bed with my phone and start replying to emails.
Who was your first best friend?
It was a girl called Bei-Bei and I liked her because she was different and I think I felt quite different being a child of immigrants. Her parents were from China and they worked for the United Nations and they ended up moving to Israel. I remember being incredibly sad when she left. I’ve never forgotten her.
If you could have a conversation with someone who has died, who would it be?
It would be Robin Williams, for sure. And I would talk to him about everything he was ever in. Like Mork and Mindy which I loved as a child. Does anybody else remember it?
What is your worst habit?
My worst habit is I bite my lips when I’m nervous and then probably – two bad habits – I ask somebody to do something and then do it myself. Ha ha.
Have you ever had a nickname?
My nickname was Mowgli (from Jungle Book) because I had a bob haircut and was a bit gangly and always climbing trees.
Do you have any phobias?
It’s not exactly a phobia – but I am terrified of empty swimming pools. I can’t explain it really. I wish I knew but it panics me. Same as ships out of water do. I guess it’s a things-aren’t-as-they-should-be thing…
Where is your favourite hidden gem in the district?
I really like Fleetville – that’s my favourite hidden gem. I love the places to eat, the charity shops and the park.
What’s your favourite St Albans pub?
The Plough in Sleapshyde. I love the food, the simple menu, and the outdoor space. It’s very chilled.
What was your favourite subject at school?
My favourite subject was English but I think it had a lot to do with the teachers.
Who is your most inspirational St Albans person – living or dead?
It was a gentleman called Mr Barry. He volunteered for St Vincent De Paul Society and he helped our family A LOT when we were younger.
He was just really devoted to helping others and he was so jolly.
