On the Northern Ireland question, for instance, the British and Irish governments prohibit media contact with members of the IRA, but we have always gone ahead, believing in the right to information.

If I'm in danger then it's usually my fault and it's up to me to get myself out of it. I am not in it just to get an adrenalin rush. No way!

There was no equal pay law when I started working. I was no different to any other woman in any other job at the time.

Up until about 12 years ago we never, ever, wore flak jacket or helmets but now the nastiness has got worse.

I also read modern novels - I have just had to read 60 as I am one of the judges for the Orange Fiction Prize.

I have nothing to do with the selection of stories. I'm the reporter.

I sailed through my childhood with a complete lack of any drama.