If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be and why?

The author George RR Martin. I’d give him a pen and paper and ask him to hurry up and finish his latest book.

What is your biggest fear?

Definitely heights. My knees go a bit wobbly if I’m any higher up than a small stepladder.

Do you have any superstitions?

None. I’m not superstitious in any way.

If you could have one song on your iPod, what would it be and why?

Just one? That’s a pretty small iPod. Hmm, I’d have to go for David Bowie’s Life on Mars? It’s a song I can listen to again and again. Surreal lyrics and a cracking tune – love it!

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought not including your property?

I think it’s the Wacom graphic display I work on. I use it for hours every day so it was well worth the cost.

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

“Learn to develop a thick skin” was invaluable advice when I first started sending cartoons to newspapers and magazines. There were plenty of rejection slips on the way to making a career out of it.

What’s your indulgence?

I enjoy playing music as a hobby, but I’ve bought way too many ukuleles. It’s getting borderline obsessive now.

What item could you not live without?

Right now I think it’s my iPad. I use it for browsing the web, e-mails, listening to and even making music. (Yes, I’ve got a ukulele app!) Plus I can draw on it when inspiration strikes.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I wouldn’t mind some bionic eyes.

Mine don’t seem to recover from late-night deadlines like they used to.

Where are you next going on holiday?

Switzerland with my wife, Nikki. I’ve been invited there by the organisers of an international cartoon festival.