The anniversary prompted me to a count-up within my LP/CD collection. I hadn’t realised I have more than twenty of his albums.

I saw him in concert once, at the Dominion in London in the 80s. Might have been a bit past his creative peak but it was great barnstormer of a gig.

Well congratulations on the win. Fully deserved, although that dirty bastard Mattie Cash should have been sent off early in the game for a potential leg breaker of a tackle.

I plead guilty. Up to eight years-old I followed my Dad in supporting Spurs then, largely because I had a few mates who supported Chelsea I switched to them. Yes, I was a treacherous child. Lost interest in my mid […]

I saw Springsteen at Manchester Apollo on that tour.. It was a great, rip roaring gig, and made it worth missing Spurs win the FA Cup on the same evening (it was when they beat Manchester City 3-2 in the replay of […]

A good read Niall. And you do seem to getting plenty of nice food.

I don’t think he should take a lot of stick for cutting the winter fuel allowance. I know plenty of people, including me and my wife, who have received it when they don’t need it to pay the bills. It was perfectly […]

Keep going Niall. I noticed your reference to reduced horizons, but even when they apply there’s still a lot to enjoy. And I’m jealous of all those lovely meals you’re getting at home. As for Spurs, first […]

Nice scarf!

I grew to hate my school and, despite sticking at it to get into uni, was thoroughly miserable through the sixth form. Part of it was a strong dislike for a bunch of dickheads who behaved badly and were allowed to […]

Finding that retirement has shifted my clock just a little later. To be used to be 11.15-11.30, now around 11.45 except for Saturdays, that tend to go to around 12.30. Awake used to be 7.15-7.45, usually […]

It’s looking likely that the Democrats will win control of the House of Representatives, and they could get the majority in a vote to impeach trump. But it then has to go to a trial in the Senate, which requires a […]

I retired at the end of last year, a few months short of the state pension but with a decent private pot built up. I’ve had intentions around voluntary work but my mum has recently had serious health problems so a […]

An abonimation! I’ve just reread the book – one of the few from the 19th century that I’ve enjoyed – and it deserves much better than the versions that have come from the film industry, and Kate Bush, over the years.

I share your sense of despondency over Spurs; but can offset that by having the prospect of the book as a reason to be cheerful.

Philip Pullman. His Dark Materials is a classic, but all the others, including the young adult novels, are highly readable. Also, I always enjoy anything by William Boyd, Ian McEwen and Lionel Shriver.

Us Londoners don’t give a toss about counties. We live in the best city in the world.

I’m sorry to hear this has taken a disturbing turn, but admiring the way you’re reacting to it. I’d guess it’s important to focus on the pleasures that can still come along. All the best.

Finished watching Tinker, Tailor yesterday evening. Can’t recall having seen it before and was greatly impressed by the way it unfolded slowly with great, low key performances all round. I did watch Smiley’s […]

I’ve just caught up with this Niall. Been enjoying our occasional interactions on Twitter – markssay – and impressed by the way you’re facing up to it – quite an inspiring read. I hope the chemo goes well and that […]