Interview: Matt Dawson, Presenter, ex-rugby player

Who would attend your fantasy dinner party and what would you eat?

My grandad, Sam, Morgan Freeman, David Attenborough, Madonna and The Beatles. We’d eat lobster salad for starters and roast lamb with all the trimmings for mains. No pudding, just loads of cheese.

Whom did you last text and what was the message?

The rugby player Paul Grayson to wish him luck for the new Aviva Premiership season.

It’s not cool but... I enjoyed watching Britain’s Next Top Model.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Don’t be afraid of making mistakes, just don’t repeat them.

What’s the worst job you ever had?

Working as an overnight security guard at an Argos depot.

Who is your favourite fictional character?

James Bond.

What are you afraid of?

Needles.

Did you have a nickname growing up? What was it and why?

My rugby nickname was Corky, or Jar Jar (Binks), because of my sticky-out ears.

What situations make you lose your temper?

People dropping litter.

If you could choose a profession that you would like to try, what would that be? Why?

A pro golfer. What’s not to like?

What food or drink is always in your fridge?

Parma ham, butter, herbs, soya milk, fruit.

If you could change something about yourself, what would it be?

I’d love to be more patient when others are driving and not quite so sensitive when mates don’t call me back.

If you could travel back in time, where would you go? I wouldn’t change a thing. Good, bad or indifferent, I love what I’ve experienced.

Saturday night or Sunday morning?

Saturday night, because it can incorporate Sunday morning as well.

Who or what is the love of your life? My wife, Carolin.

Dawson can be seen in Matt and Allegra’s Big Farm on the Good Food Channel (Sky 249 and Virgin 260), 9pm, from tomorrow until Thursday.