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Home | The Machines | The Presenters | The Experts | Find out more
What have you been doing since the last series?
Madness staged a West End musical in which I starred for a few months, and the band also did a tour.
What were the highlights for you this year?
Getting to drive an M10 tank and a combine harvester – complete opposites – a machine of death and a machine of life. And, as always, meeting a lot of jolly interesting people whom I would never normally come across.
Have you approached the show differently this year?
No. The same spontaneous approach as last year.
What was your favourite challenge?
Learning to drive the M10 tank without running anybody over. You need the skills of a juggler and soccer player for all the levers and pedals, and a touch of the contortionist to squeeze into the incredibly tight driver's compartment.
What do you really think about the people who own the vehicles? Loons or great eccentric heroes?
A bit of both.
What's the most interesting thing that you've learned on the show?
How a combine harvester actually works.
What do you pack in your bag when you head off for a Salvage Squad shoot?
A wee dram, a stout pair of boots, waterproof gear and a very warm coat.
Top Salvage Squad tipple? Beer, wine or a nice cup of tea?
All three depending on the occasion. All the vices in moderation.
Is there anything you'd like to salvage in your life?
An old 78rpm gramophone which, unfortunately, seems unsalvageable due to woodworm. Any suggestions gratefully received.
What's your idea of a perfect weekend and who would it be with?
With my lovely wife and children in sunny Whitstable. Eating oysters, drinking chilled white wine and afterwards a stroll along the shore.
Go on, give us some gossip on Claire?
She's a real teacher's pet and does loads and loads of homework before the shoots – and she makes terrible tea.
What do you think of the presenters? Share your ideas on the Salvage Squad forum.
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