Reading. Challenges and achievements (Int)

Challenges and achievements

We asked celebrities to tell us what was at the top of their ‘bucket list’ – their list of things to do before they die. We were surprised by some of their choices.

May East, TV soap star

Wonderful as it is, the problem with my day job is that I rarely get the chance to go anywhere other than the TV studio where we do most of our filming. That’s why I spend a lot of time dreaming about getting away from it all. Actors get the chance to try out so many things in our careers – I’ve learnt to play the piano, to dance and to speak a bit of Russian – all because of roles I’ve had to play. But I’ve never really been anywhere truly exotic. So, top of my list would be a trip round the globe with as many stopovers as possible.

John North, musician

For the most part, musicians aren’t exactly well-known for their commitment to working out in the gym each day, but it might surprise you to know that I’ve been an enthusiastic triathlete ever since my student days, when I represented my university. Back then, I dreamed of competing in one of the top triathlons on the world circuit, each of which is open to talented amateurs as well as professionals. In recent years, despite having to travel round the world almost constantly because of all my concert commitments, I’ve tried to keep up with the sport by running and swimming daily, and cycling whenever I can. So, finally, fulfilling my dream isn’t just wishful thinking. I’m thinking of taking time out next year to prepare for the Hawaii Ironman.

Susie Stewart, athlete

Having tried out loads of sports, my bucket list is largely given over to seeing the world and learning to do things which require brains rather than physical talent. After the last Olympics, I was fortunate enough to tick off a couple of things I’d always wanted to do one day – I trekked the Inca trail in Peru for charity, and I went horseback riding in cowboy country in the American Midwest. But none of that beats the thrill I’m getting from doing a Master’s degree in archaeology, which I’m currently halfway through. I’m making my greatest lifetime ambition come true, and, hopefully, the knowledge I gain will be really useful.