An Old Dog

I’m an old dog but I’ve learnt a new trick, somewhat belatedly. I have an ISA and an account subject to taxation. I thought the former was doing better than the latter – and so it should as the income is re-invested and I make the maximum contribution every year.

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Categorised as Business

Uncle George Remembers

Uncle George’s interview with Lord FitzAlan, the Deputy Earl Marshal, may seem somewhat informal, certainly he thought so. “That took place over 60 years ago and so I do not feel the least ashamed about it. Today things are different and to become a herald is not so easy. It is no longer just a… Continue reading Uncle George Remembers

An Assumption

London will be deprived of an Old Etonian mayor next year (Rory has pulled out) but we have an articulate and intelligent Prime Minister, a classicist, and an OE. Another OE, an even more intellectual member of the Establishment, has not minced his words. If you do mince them it is an anagram of sword… Continue reading An Assumption

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Categorised as Politics

Wimbledon Airfield

I saw this plaque today and, as usual, realised how much I don’t I know. The picture isn’t mine: it’s on the Ranger’s house but he was at home and I didn’t like to intrude. 

A Matter of Interest

There will be plenty of time to applaud the custodians of my savings who have successfully adopted defensive strategies. I love the insouciance of Barclays; “you don’t need to do anything – the changes will happen automatically … “ A Business Premium Account seems singularly inappropriately named.

By George!

My great half-uncle George wrote some “thoughts and recollections” that may amuse and interest you.

Funerary Masterpieces

Today I expected to be on James Miller’s church sculpture treasure hunt in Northants. It is a perfect day to linger in cool church interiors and picnic on salmon rolls washed down with gin and wine. But I will not be cheated entirely and will conduct my own sculpture tour.

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Categorised as Sculpture

Nature Notes

No sign of swifts over London but the Red Arrows did fly past this morning and I glimpsed a woodpecker on Wimbledon Common. When I was a child thrushes were common but I’ve only just realised they are rarer these days.

By Jove! By Jeeves

When I was at uni, as the young say, I looked forward to seeing Jeeves in London. It was launched in 1975 and with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music, Plum’s wit and a helping hand from Alan Ayckbourn was a sure bet to run longer than The Mousetrap.