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.

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

If I'm out shopping and someone talks to me, I get startled, as I'm not a natural celebrity.

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've had well-paid jobs, but in comparison to what footballers earn, I've not earned serious money.

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