Nick Eardley: Getting to Know You

What was your earliest memory? 

I was quite sick when I was young; I had coeliac disease before it was common and it took a while to diagnose. I have a very vivid memory of being a toddler and being extremely sick late at night. 

After, I sat with my mum and dad on the sofa as they watched a movie. I’ve no idea what the film was, but I’ve never forgotten the scene in which a baby was abandoned by a river. My poor parents were trying to watch a film in peace – but they accidentally scarred me for life. 

What were you like at school? 

Less punctual than I am now. I’d never be late for a BBC Breakfast hit. Registration class at St Thomas’ was another question. 

Who would be your dream dinner date? 

Just now, literally anyone. There’s a small Italian restaurant beside my flat in London – called Rosella. It’s run by a local family in Kentish Town and has a few seats outside. At the moment, I’d pick my family – all five of us and my girlfriend with a few bottles of wine and a three-course meal. The dog too, obviously.   

What’s your greatest fear? 

This might sound a bit like an answer drafted by my bosses, but I’m terrified of getting things badly wrong on air. It can give me sleepless nights. 

What’s the worst thing that anyone’s ever said to you? 

I can’t actually think of anything. I like to forget cruel comments and move on.

What’s your most treasured possession? 

I bought a bike a couple of months into the pandemic and it’s completely changed the way I see London. I love it – although it’s a Brompton and I increasingly feel like an actor from W1A when I arrive at work. 

What do you dislike about your appearance? 

I decided when I started this job not to worry too much about my appearance. But I would accept I am rubbish at doing a tie. 

What’s your guiltiest pleasure? 

Ice-cream. Lots of it. I have my dad to blame for that. 

If you could go back in time, where would you go? 

My biggest regret is never seeing David Bowie live. So I’d pick the early 70s in London at a Bowie gig. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? 

Always remember how lucky you are. It’s made a big difference to remember that over the past year. 

What skill should every person have? 

Being prepared to listen and rethink. 

What’s the worst pain you’ve ever experienced? 

I’m lucky not to have had too many injuries in my life, but is there anything worse than properly stubbing your toe? 

What’s your top film or TV programme of all time? 

Everyone Says I Love You.  

What was your best holiday ever? 

The World Cup in Brazil in 2014. My pal Chris and I spent all of our money travelling around the country for a month. The Brazilians are the friendliest people I’ve ever met. 

What was the last book you read? 

I used to read a book every week, but I’ve really struggled during the pandemic. My mate and I started a book club last year – and managed one book. However, I have just finished J L Carr’s A Month in the Country.