I had a range of interests, from the sciences to the arts to sport. I liked lots of things – science (particularly physics, chemistry and mathematics), art (particularly graphic art and illustration) and tennis. I also learned to play the guitar at university.

I decided long ago that I would do as many of the things that interested me as possible, to the best of my ability. I found that with this attitude, I generally did many things better than others who appeared to be cleverer or more gifted than I. They might have been able to do things better, but did not possess my attitude and determination. Thus I ended up doing pretty well as a scientist, won awards for my art and design, played tennis for my university team (which got to the Universities Athletics Union finals twice), and played the guitar in a local folk club on Friday nights.

Now I work hard to ensure that my lecture presentations are the best I can possibly do. On top of science, I still work in art and design, and I make science programmes for TV and the internet.

See Harold Kroto ‘s website.