My parents always knew I was hopeless at everything else, I was fortunate in that I was backed all the way. I came to it late and only because I thought there'd be loads of women and drinking!

I heard the various terms of abuse at school and probably indulged them in the way you do as a kid.

I love Dead Ringers. A democratic set, the work was taken seriously.

Television, although It's in steep decline, still occasionally gives voices to people who don't have voices.

We all need a firm sense of identity.

Often as a child you see someone with a learning disability or Down's Syndrome and my mum and dad were always very quick to explain exactly what was going on and to be in their own way inclusive and welcoming.

I loved playing [the Doctor], and taking part in the basic essence and message of the series which is, it's a short life, seize it, and live it as fully as you can. Care for others. Be respectful of all other life forms, regardless of colour or creed. To be part of that was fantastic.