I have never fought a sea serpent at the bottom of the ocean, but I have run away from my cat as she tries to bite my feet.

I have never climbed the Himalayas in a T-shirt and shorts, but I have lived in England my whole life.

I have never met a troll who dwells in the dark and damp, but I do live in the same house as my brother, who dwells in the dark and digital.

I have never eaten a bowl of custard and salt, but I have been faced with a plate of broccoli.

I have never seen performing animals at a travelling circus, but I have met my cousins’ wild West highland terrriers in Galway.

I have never been to the moon, but I have visited the space exhibit in the science museum.