After I was injured, I had several good examples of "Get on with it, stop whinging and life can be what you make it," because the world doesn't stop turning when you have a boo-boo.

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 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.

Recovery is a bit like an addiction; you take it day by day. If you set yourself too many goalposts, you'll have problems.

If you constantly dwell on the past that's where you end up living.

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

When I get angry, I start thinking about the people involved and they don't deserve my time.