“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 →
Braise Yourself
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 →
Snap Out Of It!
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 →
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 →
Anecdotes During The Anthems
It was a warm Bedfordshire night on 4th July 1990. My first born child had just turned a month old and was being fed upstairs by my diminutive Mrs. I wasn't convinced pizza was suitable for a one month old, but he's got to the age of 25, so I'll begrudgingly give kudos to... Continue Reading →
Feasting On Laughs At The Groening Board
"Marge, don't discourage the boy. Weaseling out of things is important to learn. It's what separates us from the animals…… Except the weasels." The sage like words of Homer J Simpson, penned by Matt Groening and his team of writers for an episode of the inimitable comedy The Simpsons. Why have I just quoted one... Continue Reading →
Are Those Real Arrows She’s Using?!
This morning, as I entered the living room in Chez Strachan, I was greeted by an unexpected audible ping. I foolishly romanticised that the noise was that of Cupid's bow string, as it forcefully triggering an arrow in my direction; a gesture of amour from a love struck valentine. However, this notion was soon dispelled... Continue Reading →
Paraskevidekatriaphobia
It’s February 13th today. Not a notable day as such, unless it’s your birthday or you win tonight’s lottery, or perhaps are a scientist who during the day discovers the chemical element plumium. If today had been a Friday it would have assumed an altogether high profile in the psyche of the superstitious. Individuals who subscribe... Continue Reading →