The great thing was that when we were in places like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and Hamburg, once the show was up and running, I was free all day to wander round and get into the docks to take photographs and draw. That to me was seventh heaven. At the same time I had a songwriting deal with Carlin Music so I was able to use that time for writing songs. I’d wander round with a camera, a notebook and a portable tape-recorder into which I’d hum ideas for songs.

Photography is a big part of my interest, and I suppose that because I had been brought up in an environment where I ate, slept and drank ships, I loved them. I know my way round a port so I know what I’m looking for. I would ask out of politeness but nobody ever stopped me.