A great statesman,and a snivelling weasel,not many people you could say that about in the same sentence.

A distinguished member of the senate,hardworking and intelligent,but let himself down badly at Chappaquiddick,this no doubt cost him the Presidency.

Did many good things but his tacit approval of the IRA stuck in my throat.

I have a fascinating story about Kennedy at the 1980 Democratic convention.

It'll be in the book.

I'm eagerly awaiting that book.

Despite old Joe Kennedy who made his money from decidedly dodgy ways (but paid for it with that horrible stroke) the Kennedys would have to be considered as one of those uniquely American families that gave their all for civic service.

Ted was possibly what his brothers may have become and he made an impact that won't be forgotten.

I've mixed feelings about many American's support for the IRA. I actually supported he cause-but not the methods, and oddly one part of my family are Irish protestants.

I heard 3 IRA bombs go off in London-one in Notting Hill Gate outside a supermarket that sadly killed a bomb dismantler about 10 seconds after my taxi drove was stopped by police...one in Holland Park that exploded and maimed a politician in his car..and the other as I walked across Hyde Park to Harrods to meet a friend for lunch. He died in the blast.

It's indescribable that feeling you get when you hear that dull thud or boom and smoke rises in the distance and you know instantly that somehow, someone you know has just gone.

I hated the Irish for about year. It passes though.