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The 5-Minute Interview: Richard Hammond, Presenter for 'Top Gear' - 'I've shouted, sworn and made hand gestures at other drivers'

The environment group Transport 2000 has called for the BBC's 'Top Gear'' to be scrapped, because it encourages 'boy racers and petrol- heads'. Richard Hammond is a presenter

Does Top Gear encourage irresponsible driving?

No, that's why we use racetracks to test sports cars.

What is better than driving a fast car?

Driving a fast car on a racetrack or driving a fast car with good company or driving a fast car listening to excellent music. Otherwise, walking my dogs in the rain.

What separates the men from the boys?

Going out and getting things " not waiting for them to land in your lap. Men are supposed to be useful, that's the whole point of us.

Have you ever experienced road rage?

Yes. I get a bit male and indignant if I'm tired. I've shouted, sworn and made hand gestures at people. A bus driver once ran across my bonnet and tried to pull me out of my car during one of these incidents.

Furry dice or GPS?

Both. I have a portable GPS system called Navman and I also have black and white furry dice in my 1957 88-inch Series One Land Rover, which my wife hates.

What is the ultimate driving experience?

Driving the Bowler Wildcat in the Paris-Dakar endurance race, which I hope to do next year. The Bowler Wildcat is an off-roader and the most amazingly competent, capable, tough machine I've ever driven.

What is the last thing you did for the environment?

Recycling. I'm a great believer in it. I also try to minimise packaging " our eggs come straight out of a chicken, into a basket and into my eggcup.

How would you make our roads safer?

I would introduce a system of driving lessons after you passed the initial test.

How many points do you have on your licence?

I don't wish to discuss it. I hate points.

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