Dom Joly

Why the TV presenter and comedian loves to splurge and never worries about the consequences

What was your first job, and how much were you paid for it?

My first job was selling newspapers in a kiosk outside Holland Park tube station in London. I got paid £2 an hour. It wasn’t what I wanted to do and as there was a phone in the kiosk, I used to apply for jobs in television while I was working there. On my CV, I put down that during my six months there I worked in ‘media and newspapers’.

Has anyone ever given you some valuable money advice?

My father gave me some really good financial advice. But sadly, as a rule, I never listen to advice, so it was all a bit pointless.

What has been your wisest investment to date?

The island I bought in Croatia. I bought it 10 years ago after a boat I was on ran aground there. I couldn’t think of a better place to run aground. It’s heaven. I snapped it up for a bargain price and it has been great, as I love owning my own island. When I’m there, I like to behave like a king. I want to install canons across the island but, sadly, this is illegal so I can’t. I try to spend about three months a year there, relaxing and getting away from any hassle.

What’s your biggest spending regret?

I once bought a biplane, but I never actually flew it. I bought it at an auction when I wanted to learn to fly, but never got round to it because I was always too busy. I eventually sold it for a great loss. It tends to be that if it flies or floats, it’s better to rent it.

Do you prefer to renovate or relocate?

Always relocate. I’m rubbish at DIY and I have itchy feet, so I like to keep on moving. Never look back and never change a light bulb – that’s my motto.