The 5-Minute Interview: Hank Marvin, Guitarist

Hank Marvin, 65, began his career in the 1950s with Cliff Richard's backing band The Shadows. Since going solo in 1968 he has released 11 studio albums. His latest, "Guitar Man", is released on Monday

If I weren't talking to you right now I'd be...

Asleep. I've just got off the plane from Australia, where I've lived for 20 years, and am pretty jetlagged.

A phrase I use far too often is...

"Sorry." It's a very English thing - we're always apologising for everything. Even when someone else bumps into you, the apology is a reflex action.

I wish people would take more notice of...

Good manners. There's a lot of aggression these days, whether it's driving through town or walking in the street. Young people, especially in Australia, don't give up their seats for the elderly.

The most surprising thing that happened to me was...

Almost being arrested when I first moved to Australia. The customs officials accused us of smuggling in a car and having the wrong papers. It all turned out to be a big mistake in the end (my suitcases weren't big enough to hold a vehicle!) but it looked as if we were going to be thrown in prison there for a while.

A common misperception of me is...

That I'm taller. People think I'm 6ft 5ins but I'm only 5ft 10ins. I think it comes from being on stage where the audience is looking up.

I am not a politician but...

I think people often expect too much of our leaders. They make mistakes - big ones at that - but they're human beings and they're fallible.

The best age to be is...

Probably about 30. As you get older you have more confidence at dealing with certain situations - and you get away with saying things you really shouldn't. But the physical deterioration does take its toll so I reckon the optimum is somewhere in the middle.

I'm good at...

Making people feel at ease. I always seem to have a basic understanding with everyone.

I'm very bad at...

Being organised. I'm meticulous in the studio, but when it comes to paying the gas bill I prefer to forget about it.

The ideal night out is...

Going to a good restaurant with a great atmosphere and then going on to a show or concert.

In moments of weakness I...

Buy another guitar. Although I don't use them all, I'm fascinated by the different types and designs and reckon you can never have too many. I must have about 40 at the moment.

You know me as a guitarist but I may also have been...

A gardener.

In a nutshell, my philosophy is this:

Be friendly, treat people with dignity and don't hold a grudge.

Kevin Crowley