Radio DJ Janice Long has just turned 50. She talked to Emma Pinch about reaching her half century

How do you feel about turning 50?

It's only a number. Birthdays never really enter my head. I organise parties for other people but I've never been a birthday person. It's frightening because you get nearer to death, but hey, you just get on with it. There are people who can be old when they're 18 and young when they're 80.

How are you different to when you were 25?

I don't think I've changed much. I got a picture taken with my brother in Liverpool the other day and it was just like a picture taken 30 years ago. I still go to gigs and listen to lots of music and go to festivals, the difference is, I do it with my kids. I don't know if I've ever been confident. What's the best thing about being 50?

You don't worry as much about what people think about you. You just do it. It's something to do with security of family and friends.

What's the greatest lesson you've learned?

Don't have any preconceptions about anything. Trust your gut reactions.

I say to the kids, do whatever you want, have as many career changes as you want as you love and enjoy it. If you've gone into music or sport and suddenly decide you want to do something else, what the heck? Do it.

What do you regret?

I always wanted to be an actress. Part of me still wants to do that, even if it is sitting in a waiting room on Doctors.

There are moments when you get cross and moments when you get angry but life's too short to get look back and get bogged down with petty stuff.

What are you most proud of?

I'm proud of my kids. They are good kids and we hang out together. I go to gigs with Fred. Giving people a leg up, whether it be a band or someone who normally wouldn't have a chance.

What makes you leap out of bed in the morning?

I do love life and every morning there's something where I think 'oh there's this today' - like taking Blue to dancing in Great Barr or having Doves on the show. I've got a digital camera and I'm thinking, I want to get involved with that, or read those books or go there. I never see the point in going 'there's nothing else to do or learn'. What makes you afraid?

The way the world is going is quite frightening. The planet not ours, it's only loaned to us for our children. You want everything to be gorgeous for them.

Since having Fred I've developed vertigo. Sometimes I can't even get a can of chickpeas out of the cupboard without feeling a wave. Where would you like to be in ten years time?

Sitting in New Zealand reading and painting.