Jane Asher

“An actor's job is about putting across the author's intention; I don't think of myself on the same level as a creator.”

“I swim more or less every day.”

“Of all the things I do, acting is the thing that grabs most, but there's another level on which it strikes me as being a little silly. In the end you're dressing up and deciding to be somebody.”

“I do enjoy fashion - a lot of runway clothes are pretty unwearable, but if moderated, the trends can be worn by just about anyone.”

“The things you leave school knowing - some dates and long division - so much of it has been of no use to me. Schools should teach the basics of cookery, first aid, how to look after your money and how to speak foreign languages. Useful things.”

“I adore food and always have.”

“My mum taught me that redheads shouldn't wear pink, red or orange, but if you choose the right shade, such as a bright orange or a cherry red, it can look fabulous.”

“I've never particularly liked the idea of looking back; I'd rather look forward.”

“Spreadable butter is wonderful for cake-making: it's much easier to cream than the block type and slightly lighter because it's blended with oil.”

“Acting has been very useful to me.”

“I'm a creature of habit, so I like going to boutiques, rather than larger stores, where I know I'll find something that suits me every time.”

“I think all good writing is a struggle. To write as well as you feel you can has to be a struggle, almost by definition, because you could always improve.”