I've never even been to watch because I wanted the first time to be as a player.

It is too large, it is too in-your-face, it is too visible.

Ken had nobody to beat and I'm gutted after such a good season to have performed like that. But plenty of better players than me have been bashed up. I can't wait to get home and have a pint.

He told me not to come here to waste anybody's time; he told me to make the team,

The first time I caught a wave standing up on a board. It was such an exhilarating moment. It was like being accepted into the men's club as it is such a male-dominated sport and a fundamental way of life in Newcastle.

We are very excited by this distinction. It comes at a good time and I think the best is yet to come,