ACTOR George Baker, 76, best known for his role as a police inspector in the TV adaptation of Ruth Rendell's Inspector Wexford series, has lived in Wiltshire for 17 years.

The father of five girls, he now lives in West Lavington with his third wife Louie Ramsay, 77, who played his screen wife in Inspector Wexford. He has performed with the Old Vic Theatre Company and the Royal Shakespeare Company as well as starring in as many as 30 West End plays and even a stint in Coronation Street over the last 60 years.

After his second wife died of cancer, Mr Baker has also campaigned tirelessly to raise money for cancer charities as well as help to set up youth groups in the county. He was awarded an MBE in the Queen's birthday honours.

How would your best friend describe you?

As a jolly man because I enjoy their company and usually can make them laugh.

Where would you recommend for a great day or evening out?

You know, I have several grandchildren and a great day out to me particularly for the family members who have come over from Australia, is to go to Longleat. I just like the look on the faces of the children. It's wonderful.

What do you do for fun?

I used to ride horses but I fell five years ago and hurt my back very badly. I used to love riding on Salisbury Plain. Now I walk the dog every day on the plains. I have a black Labrador called Jessel. He's ten years old now.

Describe your most vivid dream.

I think the most vivid dream or at least nightmare is that I am on stage, and this is probably every actor's nightmare, and I realise I haven't actually learnt my part. That usually wakes me up with a shudder.

Who in the public eye do you respect the most and why?

I think it is very easy to say Nelson Mandela. And why? Because I think if you have been in prison 26 years and still come out loving the world you must be quite a saint.

What is your biggest regret?

Do you know, I don't have any; it is better to say I did what I could with the cards that I was dealt'. There's no point in regretting or you will keep going backwards and never forwards.

What is your favourite film or TV show and why?

My favourite film is Bad Day at Black Rock with Spencer Tracey who gave a wonderful performance. It was so beautifully made and had a very good script.

What makes you sad?

Well, I am a 76 year-old man and the fact that the world hasn't changed at all. It is a frightening place where young people get killed. It is sad that we haven't moved forward that much. It was always there I suppose and it just is being brought up more but it still makes me sad to hear about it.

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day would be, I think, if I were meeting my grandchildren somewhere either here or in a restaurant. I have two daughters in Australia, one in France and only two in England so when we do get together it is very special.