The Evening Herald in Plymouth has once again scored a celebrity interview exclusive, proving a small ‘bribe’ never did any harm…

In November reporter Tristan Nichols won an exclusive chat with Little Britain stars David Walliams and Matt Lucas after delivering a host of goodies to their dressing room, and the tactic came up trumps again when Hawaiian music sensation Jack Johnson came to town.

The 30-year-old champion surfer-turned-singer/songwriter is currently touring the UK but has not been giving interviews to regional newspapers, so Tristan and Herald deputy editor Andy Phelan decided to infiltrate the PR circle with a gift of surf wax.

Tristan (left) with Jack

A copy of the Herald was dropped into the star’s dressing room with two blocks of wax and a specially-mounted message asking him to call, which he promptly did.

Tristan said: “Not only did he get in touch, he also agreed to an interview – the only regional newspaper interview he’d given in this country on his current tour.

“During the chat he exclusively revealed his intention to take a two-year break from touring and recording at the end of this tour, and his love for Plymouth and the South West.”

In November Tristan and Andy treated comedians David Walliams and Matt Lucas to some Marks and Spencer melon, lemon and locally-produced jam and honey, resulting in a late night call to the newsroom from Matt.