It's never much fun at school - it's just dates. Then as you get older, for some reason, you get more interested.

When I'm in Italy on a Friday night, my first supper there is a big bowl of fresh pasta and a glass of local wine, sitting outside. There's nothing better.

Gardening is, apart from having children, the most rewarding thing in life

It's never much fun at school - it's just dates. Then as you get older, for some reason, you get more interested.

Always take much less than you think you'll need.

Don't overdo the booze especially while flying - just because it's there doesn't mean you need to drink it. Everything in moderation.

Alan Bennett and Judi Dench are amazingly talented people who don't let you down when you meet them.