'There are very few commentators and broadcasters with an instinctive feel for real politics - who feel the passions, and who understand the flaws and the strengths of the players from the inside, with proper empathy. Iain Dale does, which makes him endlessly listenable-to and peerless. For many political-addicts, he is their warm but watchful friend.' Andrew Marr

'Iain Dale is that rare beast - a forensic and mischievous interviewer with a deep sense of humanity and kindness beneath the brilliant probing. His interviews yield light as well as heat - and he has a genuine ability to step away from his own zone - to see things from a much needed, alternative perspective.' Emily Maitlis

'Smart, funny, and always on it, he makes me feel happier and cleverer every time I hear him speak. Watch Iain Dale open the kimono -- can I rephrase that?' Jeremy Vine

'The indefatigable Iain Dale always cuts to the nub of politics.' Adam Boulton