Q Tell us about your childhood.
A I had a wonderful childhood growing up in a very warm and loving family. I'm an only child and lived with my parents, Raymond and Jean, in the country which was idyllic.
As well as their positive influence I had a grandmother who adored me and my wonderful Aunt Lily who is like a second mother.
I was involved in music from an early age singing in the church choir and at school.
A lady called Ethel Benson got me to sing in church when I was about five and that was it. I had discovered something that made me feel wonderful, excited and complete. I went through a Star Wars, BMX, Go Kart, Scrambler and photography phase too.