quotes of the week

It has filled me with revulsion against the whole prize - its silly dinner, and the pretentious suggestion that somehow, like the Prix Goncourt, it is conferring status on the winner.

A N Wilson, Booker judge annoyed that his choice was rejected by fellow judges

I have high standards.

Glenn Hoddle, on selecting Paul Gascoigne to play for England

He's not one of your open-toe-sandalled, bushy-bearded, anorak-wearing seventies-style teachers

Stephen Pearson, local councillor, on Peter Clark, new headmaster at the Ridings School in Halifax

Being in bed with Hugh Grant was sad, but sexless.

Tara Fitzgerald, on acting in a bedroom scene with him

Just what is wrong with child abuse?

Roger Scruton, philosopher

Roger, you mustn't hit it on the bottom in anger unless it's done something wrong.

Sophie Jeffreys, his fiancee