For about fifty years I wrote desultorily to the letters’ columns of newspapers without having any published.
My luck changed in 2012 when at last I had one published in the Financial Times.
JANUARY 14, 2012 From Mr Christopher Bellew
Sir, David Tang (“The perfect G&T for Mr T”, House & Home, January 7) omits to mention Denis Thatcher’s dislike of lemon in a gin and tonic. At an army dinner the same mess waiter twice put lemon in his glass, and twice Sir Denis fished it out adroitly and flung it into the fire. While I like lemon, I acknowledge that it is the least important ingredient. Mr Christopher Bellew, London W6, UK
Subsequently the FT published almost fifty more of my letters. But I never had any success in The Times – until this year when I have clocked-up three.
I thought The Telegraph letters column was the preserve of apoplectic retired Brigadiers and their spouses (WI members all) but have had to adjust my prejudice.
I feel a compilation is required for Christmas stockings.
On being upbraided about class, a WI member responded, ‘Oh no, our committee is very democratic here. We have three ladies, three women and one teacher!’
Some time ago…….
p.s. My mother chaired her village WI and she was certainly not related to any brigadier – she might have been that teacher.
Yes Alexandra. Following in the footsteps of John Julius.