Sir Fred Hoyle has been described as "unquestionably one of the most gifted astronomers and mathematicians of our times", and "the maverick genius of British science". In conversation with Michael Parkinson, he recalls his upbringing in Yorkshire and talks about his career as a scientist and as a writer - he has produced some 15 novels, a pantomime and the libretto for an opera.

[Taken from the original programme material for this archive edition of Desert Island Discs]

Favourite track: String Quartet No 16 in F, Opus 135 by Ludwig van Beethoven