A Magpie in Marrakech.

As a longstanding Notts County season ticket holder, going AWOL for a home fixture is supreme sacrilege. The crunch match against Tranmere Rovers (Saturday, 22nd February 2025) ultimately fell to the magnetism of Marrakech, the fourth biggest city of Morocco, and the now customary short break (4-nights) to somewhere new and scintillating to celebrate my … Read more

Arthur & Darcie: My guides to lifelong learning.

Can accepting that children are our greatest teachers make us better adults? A friend once asked me, “Would you recommend that I have children?” Without a moment of hesitation, I immediately endorsed the notion. His reply was instant and illuminating: “But you are always moaning about them!” Momentarily my reflections bounced from embarrassment to confusion. … Read more

Lifting the skid lid on life, loves, losses, and letting go: Scott Nicholls.

I was surprised, stumped, and a tad star struck when national speedway treasure Scott Nicholls asked me to write his autobiography. We had collaborated earlier on a fun piece for Speedway Star that, amongst other things, focussed upon his trademark shirts – which he introduced to the pundit fold during his showtime on BT Sports … Read more

Spoons: The Orwellian community order.

Is the local Wetherspoons the real community hub where the human condition is fed and watered? Whenever I consider matters of a fiscal nature, value for money is always a significant driving force. Being born in the 60s, I have inherited the values of my parents which instilled the notion of financial probity. Moreover, I … Read more

Unlocking your mind: the genius of innuendo.

I was recently scolded for my seemingly persistent use of the double entendre on social media. My guilt is overwhelming, with my allegiance to the “nudge, nudge, wink, wink” approach of comedy undeniable – a humorous expression used to imply a hidden or suggestive meaning without stating it directly has become my primary route to … Read more