I prefer cash but so many places only take cards these days, it forces you down a line and I don't like that.

I've always been very hopeful but I also know that as long as you've got a good work ethic, almost anything is achievable and I learned that in the armed forces.

I haven't stopped working hard since I was 15.

When I bought out my first autobiography I received the biggest tax bill of my life.

Everyone in my family was a very serious worker, always with a determination to provide for each other.

I received a wonderful email after I spoke at a school from a girl who'd lived in a war zone and endured horrors no human being should suffer, let alone a child. This young lady was fortunate to be bought to Britain and seemed to adjust well, but suddenly found herself falling off the rails and sliding into hell when I chatted to her. In her letter, she told me the difference that I'd made. She's now 20 years old and a fashion designer employing staff and she puts her work ethic down purely to talking to me. It's my most treasured letter.

I like to live life in an understated way because that's who I am - an ordinary guy who has experienced an extraordinary journey.