Nicholas Hancock "I'm still quite a lusty chap, you know," says the old poet and adventurer, as a smile ghosts through the blue of his eyes, causing a barely visible stretching of fine lips, which should have some kissing to do before their flame dies. This is the man who has just published an acclaimed novel about the love of a couple in their 70s, described with a tenderness, which recognises that body parts sag and hang loose, while varicose veins swell into view. "I need only look at my own legs to help me with such passages," says Nicholas Hancock, with a knowing shrug. "But why should you hide what experience has given you?"

         Interviewer David Charters of the Liverpool Daily Post 24/11/04 - Pic by Tracy O'Neill