Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
“How did that gobshite get on the TV?” is probably a question most people have uttered about someone or other while getting their daily fix of the goggle box. On the occasion it was uttered by a normally incomprehensible whisky soaked priest from his well-worn armchair, the target of the addled old man’s barbed question was... Continue Reading →
On a couple of occasions recently I've had very pleasant lunches out, courtesy of two different Christmas gifts. On Friday, my wife Karen and I had a two course lunch with drinks at a Country House hotel in the Vale of York, courtesy of my sister Helen. While yesterday Karen, my parents and I had... Continue Reading →
Referred to by Sir Winston Churchill as "Scotland’s greatest ever ambassador", entertainer Sir Harry Lauder passed away on this day in 1950. Born in Portobello, Edinburgh in 1870 he was the first Scottish entertainer to sell a million records and at his peak was the highest paid entertainer in the world. He started singing in... Continue Reading →
It’s actor Sir Tom Courtney’s 78th birthday today. Born in Hull in the East Riding of Yorkshire, the knight of the realm’s critically acclaimed first appearance on that day won him the following rave reviews:-. “A superb entrance! ****” – Reighton Gap Courier. “A rousing first appearance. His strong projection bodes well for his future... Continue Reading →
Recently, I visited York to see my son Jonny on his off day. It's always a fillip to catch up with the lad who calls me dad. He calls me some less flattering things as well, but it's best they remain within the family. We took in lunch in one of York’s many fine eateries.... Continue Reading →
“Right, then, it's Manchester United versus Spurs in this cup tie here at Old Trafford. And it's the fair-haired, slightly balding Charlton to kick off.” Words of commentary delivered with gusto by sports teacher Mr Sugden (played by the late Brian Glover) in a scene from 1970 British movie Kes. His descriptive words not only... Continue Reading →
This morning my wee wife and I went for a stroll at Roundhay Park. The chilling wind was so bracing that my little spouses jaw froze, meaning she became temporarily unable to say the word bracing. As a result, for a short time this morning, Karen described the strong breeze that was battering that scenic... Continue Reading →
In 1982 the British punk rock band The Clash released a single that included the lyrics:- Should I stay or should I go now? If I go there will be trouble And if I stay it will be double So you gotta let me know Should I cool it or should I blow? Should I... Continue Reading →
It was encouraging to read the news earlier in the week that the government are to inject much needed funds into the mental health care of the nation. Approximately £1 billion is to be made available to the NHS to help negate the previous underfunding by successive administrations. Despite its higher profile in recent years,... Continue Reading →