First Impressions: Sue Johnston

I am currently out and about promoting the book, which doesn't feel like work, and then I am off on holiday; so I'm resting.

When were you at your happiest?

I'd have to say it was at my son's wedding in May 2010.

What is your greatest fear?

The idea of anything bad happening to my son.

What is your earliest memory?

I went on holiday with my parents to a Butlin's holiday camp. I was two years old and I remember having my arms pulled out of their sockets by two enthusiastic teenagers.

Who has been your greatest influence?

My dad and also my English teacher, Mrs Shutter, while I was a student at Preston girls grammar school

What do you most dislike about yourself?

I really don't like my feet.

What is your most treasured possession?

They were my mother's wedding and engagement rings until a burglar took them last summer

What trait do you most deplore in others?

I really dislike bad manners and selfi shness.

Do you have a fantasy address?

It would have to be Anfield, the home of Liverpool Football Club.

What do you most dislike about your appearance?

Physically, I have always disliked my nose.

What is your favourite book?

War And Peace by Tolstoy.

What is your favourite film?

The comedy classic, Some Like It Hot.

What is your favourite record or piece of music?

You'll Never Walk Alone by Gerry and the Pacemakers.

Your favourite meal?

A good, traditional Shepherd's pie.

Who would you most like to come to dinner?

At the moment the actor Michael Fassbender, but only at the moment.

Which historical character do you most admire?

Nelson Mandela.

What is the nastiest thing anyone has ever said to you?

It was a long time ago when I was working as a barmaid during my student years. A customer said, 'you've got a lovely face but you've got a bloody awful nose. Why don't you get it fi xed?' I'm still thinking about it; what he said and getting it fixed. I had never really noticed it until then. It's the thing I now dislike most about my appearance.

Do you believe in aliens?

No I don't.

What is your secret vice?

I love drinking wine and watching Tottenham Hotspur football club. Not usual for someone who comes from Warrington.

Do you write thank-you notes?

I do sometimes.

Which phrase do you most overuse?

The phrase I most overuse is probably, 'Oh God'.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life?

Being a lot fitter.

What would you like your epitaph to say?

'I should have been cremated'.

Things I Couldn't Tell My Mother by Sue Johnston is published by Ebury, £7.99.