February 22, 2001 11:15: Who would you ask to a dinner party if you could pick six guests from all of history?

That was the question we set readers in a street survey in our sister paper, the Bucks Free Press Midweek. And it brought some remarkable answers.

Student Graham Curry, of Gerrards Cross, would invite Monica Lewinsky for the after-dinner cigars, and the late Steve McQueen because he was cool.

Royal Grammar School pupil William Dobson's guests would include pop star Michael Jackson so he could poke fun at his nose.

Kerry Brewis from Flackwell Heath would call on Sean Connery just to hear the sound of his voice, while Doreen Evans from High Wycombe would sit down with Pat Boone and Pat Butcher from EastEnders.

Others wanted Robbie Williams, Prince William and Marilyn Monroe.

So who would I have to dinner? Charles Dickens, the greatest journalist and author in history, would be number one on the list.

Then there'd be Charles Whiffin, the Victorian publican who lived in my house in High Wycombe at the turn of the century. I've tried to trace details of him for years, but have hit a brick wall. His life story would be fascinating.

Prince Charles would also be a good guest. As a veteran of countless banquets, he'd be adept at keeping the conversation going during those awkward silences.

Charles II would be an interesting companion. and I'd also invite actor Charles Laughton, the man who played Quasimodo in the Hunchback of Notre Dame. After all, he'd get the hump if he wasn't asked.

Finally, I'd ask French singer Charles Aznavour. I don't like his music, but it was great the way he used to dance with himself when he sang 'Dance In The Old Fashioned Way'. He could lead the after-dinner dancing and no-one else would have to join in.

In other words, my dinner party would consist of a right bunch of Charlies. A bit like a normal night around my place.

Who would you invite to your ideal dinner party? You can choose six guests, living or dead. The best answer will win a signed (if slightly deflated) Wycombe Wanderers' football that has been lying around in my office for months. Write to Editor's Chair, The Star, Gomm Road, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP13 7DW

By.Steve Cohen