You can't be a proper comic unless you've been out on stage and felt the fear.

You can't be a proper comic unless you've been out on stage and felt the fear.

I came back from university thinking I knew all about politics and racism, not knowing my dad had been one of the youngest-serving Labour councillors in the town and had refused to work in South Africa years ago because of the situation there. And he's never mentioned it - you just find out. That's a real man to me. A sleeping lion.

Never try to be witty with U.S. airport officials. It's always lost on them and you'll find yourself being put back on the plane.

Some comics are in it for what they can get out of it. Others are in it for a love of comedy. I think those that are in it for a genuine love of comedy find each other within the circuit and become friends.

I am a big fan of smelly cheeses but the rest of the family don't seem to be particularly keen on them.

You don't want to be flattered and become big-headed by getting awards. But, well, I am.