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 →
Roamin’ In The Gloamin’
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 All Happening!”
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 →
Posh Coats & Sarnies
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 →
“He Wants Bleedin’ Milkin’, The Fat Get!”
“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 →
Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
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 →
Judging A Book By Its Cover!
During a recent sampling of Facebook's fare, I was struck by the bizarre nature of some of the apps or themed postings that had rendered on my timeline. For example, I saw a posting which asked the reader to add in 'comments' the main characters name in the last TV show they'd watched. According to... Continue Reading →
The Paradox of Trigger’s Broom
It was one of the funniest scenes in arguably the best loved British comedy in the last three decades. A lovable imbecile sat in a café with his mates, basking in the glory of his recent award for saving his employers (the local council) money by using the same broom for 20 years. On cross... Continue Reading →
Are You Sure That’s A Shark?
In an attempt to broaden my horizons, I bought a high brow publication this morning which I used to read regularly back in the day. Among the articles within its enlightening pages, which for decades quenched my thirst for knowledge and self growth, I was curious to read the following:- “Some free radicals arise normally... Continue Reading →