If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be and why?

Nelson Mandela, he’s done such a lot for the people of South Africa. A magnificent man.

What is your biggest fear?

Watching children with no sense of safety, it makes me go grey.

Do you have any superstitions?

Not really. I do look up when I walk under a ladder.

If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

Frank Sinatra ‘My Way’. He’s the greatest entertainer ever and he always did it his way.

What is the most expensive thing you've bought, not including property?

The car probably.

What is the best piece of advice you've been given?

Old Dad used to say to me ‘always think before you do or say anything.’ I think that’s pretty good advice.

What is your indulgence?

It’s got to be gardening in one of green houses; I’m out there most days of the week.

What item could you not live without?

It would be my propagation bed.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

My age, I’d like to be thirty years younger! No, I wouldn’t change anything. I’ve had a good innings.

Where are you next going on holiday?

It would be the English Riviera: Sidmouth, Torquay, Brixham. There’s so much to see down there. You find something every time you go. I think we’ll be in Torquay next.