I read a lot of research notes about the countries I visit, and my mum and dad bought me a Kindle, but I'm still getting to grips with it. I prefer paper books.

I always get very fit if I'm going away filming for two months in Afghanistan or wherever.

I'm an old git now, so I would say this, but television was better when there were less channels. There was more concentration and selection in terms of the output.

I didn't even watch the soaps when I was in them because it's like a coal miner coming home and staring at the coal scuttle - I was never a great lover of watching myself act.

Riots born out of political issues aren't the same as those born out of personal greed.

If I have a weakness, it's for timepieces - if I see one I like and can afford it, I'll buy it.

Sunglasses are a bit like watches for me - a real obsession. My favourites are Oakleys, Ray-Bans and Wileys, which are worn by the U.S. military.