Chris McCausland

“I'm quite resistant to things and then it takes me a while to acclimatise to it and really think it through. But then I just need to process these things.”

“I believe in representation within the mainstream.”

“People think you can't do anything if you're blind.”

“I like a challenge, I like new things, I like being out of my comfort zone, but I need to know that I can do good and represent myself and represent other people well.”

“Kiss were one of the biggest rock bands in the world: their image was absolutely majestic, their music has stood the test of time, and they performed live across six decades. If that's not iconic then nothing is.”

“You don't want to keep on mentioning being blind because it stops being funny - if you are just talking about that, people are going to get bored of it.”

“I went to Worcester College for blind and partially sighted people, but could see quite a bit.”

“I've been a stand-up now for over two decades and I am lucky enough to enjoy the privilege of being able to tour and fill theatres.”

“I am a self-confessed rock fan and metal head, but I love good music, and 40 years on the Pet Shop Boys still have it.”

“I'm aware that I can only play someone who looks my age, is pasty white and can't see what they're doing!”

“Committing to providing greater opportunities for disabled actors should include writing disabilities into more roles where it is irrelevant to the storyline.”

“Since jumping on this crazy train, 'Strictly's' popularity has taken me somewhat by surprise.”

“The Samba requires that the lower part of the body does all of the work but the upper body has absolutely no fun whatsoever - let's be honest, it's nonsense isn't it.”

“Although my work often requires me putting myself out of my comfort zone - 'Strictly' being the perfect example of this - I am a creature of habit and I do like a routine whenever I can establish one.”

“I don't dance, I haven't danced, I can't dance, I can't see the dancing I will have to do.”

“I could never read the letters on the blackboard or anything at school, but I could run around and play football.”

“Access To Work is a vital Government service that provides workplace support and access technology to disabled people. It is wonderful that it exists, but I believe it's under resourced.”

“I've always believed in representation within the mainstream. Integration rather than segregation.”

“I've heard too many stories of disabled people securing employment, to then only have to wait far too long to obtain the support that they need.”

“There's no point fast-tracking performers on to TV before they're ready. In comedy especially, you need experience to be able to react in the moment.”