Cliff Richard: "Getting knighthood is my best memory"

If you hadn't gone into a career in singing what could you see yourself doing?

Music has always been a huge part of my life. Had I not been as successful as I was, I think I would have still found a way to be involved in the industry. It just doesn't seem possible to smother a passion and a desire.

Apart from Elvis who do you wish you had met?

Bill Haley played a huge part in my childhood. I remember skipping school to queue at the box office for tickets when he was playing locally. Someone 'snitched' and my friends and I got caught – but it was worth it.

Do you regret not having children?

It's never bothered me. My three sisters have children, and it's been wonderful to watch them grow up, get married and start families of their own. I've made sure I've always played a part in their lives. My 'freedom' allows me to continue my career.

Are there any words of advice that you were given early on that have stayed relevant throughout your career?

Yes, it was wise and sensible advice from my Dad that I remember to this day. "If you don't make it," he said, "there's still a life to be lived". That was such timely, sound, "feet on the ground" advice. Just a little later came his other timeless wisdom. "If you really want this" he said soon after our success with Move It, "then give it your all". I've been doing that ever since!

How big of a role does faith play in your life?

It's very much shaped who I am today. My faith has kept me sensible and shielded me from a lot of problems that someone with my 'fame' could have encountered.

Do you think your faith has helped you avoid drugs and drink which other stars can fall victim to?

Drugs weren't as commonplace as they are now, but they were still around. I just didn't know what they were. After ten years in that environment, I started to think 'Is this how I'm going to end up?' and I certainly didn't want anything to cut my life short.

Do you have any vices?

Well, none that I'd tell you about! Seriously, if enjoying a glass of champagne or red wine most nights is a vice, then I must hold my hand up.

Can you see yourself ever retiring?

I think I'd only ever consider it if my voice was to give up on me. Performing puts a lot of pressure on the vocal cords, so if I ever thought I couldn't give my fans the show they deserved, I'd stop singing. I'm still fit and able and presently touring Australia. I will be recording an album of rock 'n' roll hits and then in June I will be touring Still Reelin' and Rockin' at a number of UK outdoor venues.

You have chosen some interesting historic venues for your tour. Did the idea of doing something different with these concerts appeal?

Yes definitely. With every show I like to add a little something different to keep it exciting and fresh. Britain is steeped in so much history and many of the places I am performing at are treasure houses of England. I'm especially looking forward to performing at Warwick Castle, which I'm told was built by William the Conqueror.

What is your fondest memory from your career so far?

Without a doubt, receiving a knighthood for services to music and charity. At first when I got the letter I couldn't believe what it was saying. I think I ended up laughing for a good while out of sheer shock! But then, when I read it again, I realised it was actually happening. And what an honour.

* Sir Cliff Richard plays Warwick Castle on June 8, 2013.