A Bolt from a Blue.

Police officers who deploy lethal force understand that their actions will be subject to the highest level of scrutiny. In my experience, decisions of this nature are never taken lightly. Where permissible, such actions are typically preceded by the articulation of options aimed at eliminating the need for force. Operational decisions of this kind inevitably … Read more

Don’t Worry, Be Happy: if only.

I think I’m a serial worrier; I base this assumption on the simple fact that I have often found myself worrying about having nothing to worry about. Riddle me that one if you can! I think I handle this state of mind, nestled within my consciousness ever since I can remember when, fairly well. Granted … Read more

The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing But the Truth: Why the Story Matters More.

Having been a cop in a former life, I was schooled in the pursuit of the truth. There was a clean, uncompromising attraction to this quest, and I became skilled in building a prosecution case based on the ethical collection of facts. The truth is spectacular since it efficiently removes the need to lie – … Read more

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