It's never much fun at school - it's just dates. Then as you get older, for some reason, you get more interested.

When I'm in Italy on a Friday night, my first supper there is a big bowl of fresh pasta and a glass of local wine, sitting outside. There's nothing better.

Gardening is, apart from having children, the most rewarding thing in life

Be kind to your garden and be gentle on your back!

I am partly to blame for the decking boom, and I am sorry, I know it?s everywhere these days.

Don't overdo the booze especially while flying - just because it's there doesn't mean you need to drink it. Everything in moderation.

I never get bored of my wife. It's lovely.

I've covered a lot of the British countryside and the UK from top to bottom and side to side. It's such a pity more people don't appreciate what's on their doorstep.

Depends on the evening. A good red wine is nice in cold weather. A Claret or a Rioja. I've got a good gin we make from damson plums. And you can't beat a glass of champagne every now and again.

I'm a big fan of the Queen. She carries herself well, as does the Prince of Wales, despite getting lots of stick.

I get nice letters, but really I have no idea. I just try to enthuse people. You've been married for 31 years.

Freedom is difficult…but we have never had to put a wall up to keep the people in.

This is my toughest time but the greatest.

Wait long enough and people will surprise and impress you.

Love is love, " I told her, as I tell all of my patients who are ashamed to find themselves shattered by the death of a dog. "Loss is loss.

Fitness is a luxury when you are busy!

It was their mothers, long ago. Tibby noted with joy that all four of them were wearing jeans.

Imagine what might happen if women emerged from their labor beds with a renewed sense of the strength and power of their bodies, and of their capacity for ecstasy through giving birth

Nature stopped being natural decades ago.

The Chinese do not draw any distinction between food and medicine.

My heart's gratitude Is My life's plenitude.