Paul Merton used to be a civil servant.
He went on to become an accalaimed comedian and contributor to Have I Got News For You.
Paul Merton's other credits include hosting Room 101 and acting in remakes of old comedies as well as presenting programmes about silent comedy.
He has presented various travelogue series for Channel Five including Paul Merton in China, Paul Merton in India, and Paul Merton in Europe.
Asked by the Radio Times, which TV star had the greatest influence on him, Paul Merton replied - "Benny Hill's shows in the early 60s were a great inspiration."
