I've been lucky to have made a number of travel programmes with the BBC, the object being to see places off the beaten track. As a result, I've often had a guide who's been able to show me things that you wouldn't see with a tour group.

I am very cautious of people who are absolutely right, especially when they are vehemently so.

My marriage has worked because I am not around much.

Now, what sort of person would write a scene where a young man stumbles upon a castle full only of beautiful young women? Answer: ME!

People are still crazy about Python after twenty-five years, which I find hard to believe.

My parents have been married forty-two years. I wonder how many of those were happy.

I mistrust total competence. I've always felt life is a series of small disasters we try to get through.