I found some old maths coursework ... 

Bish, bosh ... bash

Some thinks are quite annoying. I was reading about "Lotto Lout" Michael Carroll this morning and his ex-bird said, to quote ... "He loved to pelt traffic wardens with Big Macs ... there was ketchup everywhere." Well hello, there is no ketchup in Big Macs, everybody knows it's special sauce. Jesus. At least get your facts right.

It's also quite funny ready footballers recall certain games and incidents in matches. I was reading a Scott Parker interview on the way to Sunderland a week or so ago. He was bleating about this and that, but said one of his best matches was the boxing day victory over Chelsea. He said we were up against it and went one nil down early doors, before equalising then hanging on for dear life. Hang on a minute. Was this the Boxing Day match in 2003, when we beat the Chels 4-2. The one where HH scored in the first stroke second minute. The one where Chelse equalised with their first attack, then sat back as Charlton ran riot. Where Paulo made John Terry look stupid, and Matty Holland scored a cracking header, Euelly that incredible half volley and with twenty minutes left we were 4-1 up. Yes, Scott, it's the same match you were playing in the damn thing ... so at least get your facts right.

I've just noticed it's started raining again. Oh there goes the summer. It's oh so depressing. Where's the sun?

My tune of the day: Gypsy Woman - Curtis Mayfield

The King of Flip Flops ...

Well i never knew flip-flops would be so controversial. From Lattimers use of my lime green number to Giles saying the only other flip flop wearer he knows is Gandhi. It's as though I was wearing an indian headdress or a pair of backless chaps. They are flip-flops straight off Ipanema beach, well one pair was from Copacabana, but really. I like flip-flops and I'll wear them ... but not at the Notting Hill Carnival.

It still annoys me when people stand at the ticket barrier and then fumble for their ticket. What's that all about? It annoys me when people sit on the outside seat and put their bag inside. Per-lease. It annoys me when get off at Cannon Street and light up straight away. For heavens sake, give peace a chance.

I've just heard that I may finally be getting my sofa. I've been waiting for 5 months and was finally giving up hope. So I went back to the showroom. It had been turned into a coffee bar. Lucky that eh? So I go in explain the situation to the Eastern European "Beauty" behind the counter. She plays dumb. Don't know him, don't know any sofa shop. But given that the Sofa Shop proprietor was Eastern European and was telling me about his plan for a coffee shop, I let her carry on. I have to say I was getting more and more adjatated, and she then said I couldn't speak to her like that. You have to laugh. I said I should come back with a van and take the sofas in the coffee shop. She said you can't do that. I said watch me.

You know what, I left my number and within 4 minutes I had a call. A bloke, the owner of the Sofa shop. Oh that's a coincidence. He has my sofa on the van. His phone had been stolen, he didn't have my number. Yea right. He can deliver in the next two days. So I've phoned the back-up. Watch this space.

My tune of the day: First Time - Kenny Carvejal ft Carla Pratha

In Thomas we trust ....

So I sit there reveling in the Addicks actually want to attack, and as Thomas flicks the ball back behind his body a shout goes up ...

"Just bleedin clear it ..."

Hang on!!!! Clear it, we are attacking, against Wigan ... and in reality you want him to boot the ball up the pitch. Sometimes you wonder why you bother. Thomas may be, just may be the best ball player I've seen at Charlton, and for him to "boot da ball" is sacriledge. I want to see him beat a man, then go back and beat him again. Take the piss. Do those step overs, wiggle his leg, shake his head, his foot, his ass whatever he has to. I have had years of watching Brendan O'Connell plough the furrow, now I want to be entertained. You can't tell me that Paul Mortimer taking the Michael i the snow at the New London Stadium wasn't one of your alltime favourite Charlton moments? Or the Killer overhead kick against Hull City which on the Big Match goal of the season. It's all about entertainment .. that's what I want.

I'd just like to put in print how good Alexi Smertin and Dandy Murphy were on Saturday. Now these two compliment each other, and long may it continue.

The X-Factor!!! Wha'ts that all about? We've had that, surely, they can't keep flogging a dead horse?

It's August, and it's been raining all day ... it must be close to the bank holiday? All down hill to Christmas then. I'll have to start getting my Chrimbo list together. Luckily I didn't hang my washing out on the line this morning. Decisions, decisions ...

I can't wait for a paperless office ...

My tune of the day: Gloria's Muse - Blaze

The rain in spain ...

As the black clouds crossed the sky yesterday afternoon, they mirrored the look on my face. The sun had shone for 3 days, in fact yesterday lunch time as I ate some sushi in Borough Market the temperature was touching 100 degrees. Yes, I know I am prone to exageration but hey, as Bern would say it's my blog. Anyway ... you may wonder why I was that bothered about the weather? Generally, as nice as it is when the sun shines, I have a lot of other things to moan about before the weather. But last night I had booked to go Somerset House to sit in the 18th century courtyard and combibe an urban picnic, there woprds not mine, with live DJing and a film ... in this case Spirited Away. Well anyway, the clouds did hold off ... brussels pate and blue cheese was consumed as well as lashing and lashings of ginger beer. All in all a quality night, quality company ... even if I do say so myself.

Today however the rain is falling. It's like we haven't had rain for months, then all of a sudden it all wants to fall at once. Just in time for the weekend. The weekend before the Bank Holiday weekend, and the Notting Hill Carnival.

Before we get to next weekend we've got to get through this one, and our first ever fixture against Wigan Athletic. It should actually be interesting given the fact that we have a sort of match against them on Saturday morning. Yep CIAFC are back and have their first game of the season. I'm down to play in goal, but we will wait and see.

After last weeks victory at Sunderland I'm actually quite looking forward to the game tomorrow. Famous last words eh!!!!!

My tune of the day: Brand New Dance - BeBe Winans

Sea lions and bleedin Coco the Clown ...

Indeed. It appeared that aliens came down to earth kidnapped the England Football Squad and replaced them with a set of Clowns in an experiment that would test the patience of the best of us. We had a line up including Rio, Becks, Rooneeeeee, Joseph Cole. Now tell me, what's the average weekly wage here. Shed loads, yes, no? But last night it appeared that what we had was a set of players that couldn't be bothered, couldn't motivate themselves, couldn't kick it, (yes they can) ... or even act like they cared. Gerrard was a pale imitation of the Liverpool player, Lumpard was overweight, and outfought by Tommy Gravesen, Cole of the J variety kept cutting back onto his right foot ... and Becks was concentrating on his hair more than his flare. The funniest moment though was at the end of the game. When being interviewed David James said that he wasn't mentally prepared for the game. Well I had to have a little sit down then. He's a footballer, that's what he does. So when would be be prepared? Have I missed something here? Thank the lord that Darren didn't have to get off the bench for this one. His time will come.

Right, after that shambles I turned over and watched the Channel 4 blockbuster !!!! LOST.

I'm not sure what it's all about, but what I did learn is that the Americans can still make shmultsey, cringeworthy TV. The end bit when Walt finds his dog, to a soft rock accompaniment is ... well you get me. Yes, I'll be watching, but it is surprising that the BBC can't make such stirling TV. Extras my ass.

It just dawned on me that I've never seen Wigan play football. That'll be a new team. It must be my first new team since er, Yeovil last year. But they do have Jason Roberts up front. I wonder what sort of game the centre halves will be expecting?

Oh back to England. How does Glen Johnson get a game? He doesn't even play for Chelskov. It makes a mockery of actually picking players that can do a job. Jeez, just let me get over it. Anyway at least Romm scored.

Guess what? I'm really happy with the Sony Ericsson K750i. The camera is good and it actual does what it says on the tin. Whoooosh.

My tune of the day: New York House - Marlon D

My attire ... and nobody says a word 

Sea lions on me shirt ...

Blimey, the Ashes euphoria has been taken up by Becks and Co, and En-ger-land are going to win the World Cup next year. I for one would love this to happen, but per-lease. Aren't we all realists? When we get down to it, in either the quarters or Semis we'll all be let down ... again.

So what's the chances of Darren playing for the Seniors tonight? Even a half hour run out. I for one hope that he enjoys his experience and maybe doesn't get thrown to the lions. Remember what happened to Ricketts, to Jeffers and Konchesky!!! His time will come, but I just want him fit and happy for Saturday.

I've just been reading the Metro about Online dating. Now I don't want to be a killjoy of anything but frankly I find this all very strange. Does anyone know an Online date fiend? Who isn't a Creepy Older Man!!!!! No thought not. However the page in the Metro does give a few tips. Like be specifiv, don't say "I'm outdoorsy", say "this is my favourite mountain to climb in the Lake District" or in fact say why you don't really like Leeds Castle. Avoid a list of adjectives, be positive, don't have unrealistic expectations .. ha ... avoid cliches!!!!! They're having a laugh!!!! Aren't they? How am I meant to explain my love of long walks on the beach, candlelit dinners and Sunday in bed with the papers. Oh well, Online dating ... not for me.

Do you realise they are still two more tests to play. We've got to endure this Nu-Cricket even more. Brian Johnson will be turning in his grave.

I've just popped outside for a coffee. Talk about "Phew what a scorcher ..."

My tune of the day: I might do something wrong - Tortured Soul

It was a great morning until I walked into the Office door ....

Right then. After my headbanging session I can actually now concentrate on what I am doing. The cricket ...!!!! The Sun says "Vaughan's hero's robbed by ONE wicket". Call me old fashioned but robbed??? That's the whole point of the game, to bowl your opposition out twice. That's two lots of ten wickets. Not nine but ten. So England are robbed!!!! By whom? It was a great game, yes ... but don't treat us like idiots.

I had a washing and ironing frenzy last night. A weeks worth of ironing as well as three loads of washing, meant the flat was like a Chinese laundry. I also watched Old Boy an interesting Korean film, but did miss some bits due to ironing instead of watching the subtitles.

Well last night was the first BB-less night for 3 months. How did we all cope? Yeah, thought as much.

No news on the Charlton transfer targets. There's a lot of hypothetical drivel about Bowyer and Marcus Bent, but I'll wait for Curbs to sort it out.

My tune of the day: My baby knows (I like it) The New Yorkers

The answer to our question

On leaving the Stadium of Light on Saturday, the question was when was the last time we won the first match of a season away from home?

The answer just in ... 21 years ago but against whom I haven't the foggiest.

We are top of the league ...

Well it's not for me to gloat, or to even get too carried away. But after getting stuffed at Bolton this time last season this result definitely made the relatively easy journey up North all the more worthwhile. I'll also like to say "Unlucky" to all the overweight, sunbed loving Makem Muppets who tried to give it at the Stadium of Light on Saturday. Evidently as Jordan says what goes around comes around.

It was in effect a long old day. Up at 6:30, shower and shave then onto London Bridge. I met Rod on his way to work, then after meeting James a short hop to Kings Cross. The 8:30 was on time and a table was commandeered for the journey. We left Doncaster in our wake and arrived at Newcastle at 11:34. Now what is funny is that for weeks people have been moaning about the trains being up the swanny, that it was too expensive, that flying was the only way ... yadda yadda. Well we had no hastle, and even had a few beers on the way.

After booking into our hotel ... the Caledonian we went into town to crack on. A few G&T's, some of Mrs Vinces chips and we were on the Metro going to the Stadium of Light. Now generally the Makems are non plussed about Charlton fans. We both went through that Play Off final so we all know what's what. But you still get a few herberts, it's a shame really ... but that's the life of a football fan. It could be worst though. I watched some of the Wigan v Chels game yesterday. Now I am no Chels fan but I found it funny that they scored in the 93rd minute and even funnier that Jose had to console Paul Jewel. But when Sky interviewed some "Wigan fans" after the game one bloke in his new shiny home kit said, this is my first ever game and although a little disappointed we did ok. Another said "Hey oop, we'll be alriteeee, we'll be looking to finish 5th or 6th." Fwuk me ... football fans!!!! Quite remarkable really ... but I'm sure he'll enjoy his trip to the Valley next week? No !!!!

Has anyone noticed how although Our Anthony won BB, the papers both yesterday and today are full of Makosi!!! Exclusive interviews, following the dream love ... you go for it. After watching her interview with Davina I did wonder why the best alround housemate ever had to go through this, when the likes of Maxwell and Craig were seen as cheeky harmless chappies.

On a football note it was good to see Welling Utd get off to a great start on Saturday. I have to say I always look out for their results. Sad, yes I know.

I've just been looking up the weather forcast for London this week. Can you really trust these people? It's going to be sunny all week, or so they say. What if I wanted to have an evening outdoors and it rains? Who do I sue?

My tune of the day: You got me hung up - King Tutt

Ramadine and Valentine ...

Come on then all you nu-age cricket lovers who sang that calypso with the line ...

"With them two pal of mine, Ramadine and Valentine"

You don't know? Well why not ask Kevin Everett or Bonnie Razzil as they seem to be liking the sound of leather on willow.

It seems that the Aussies are creeping back into the match. Whatever Mr Cooksley thinks, 359 - 6 isn't a great score on this pitch.

It's the start of the Premier League tomorrow. A trip up to Sunderland sees us far away from home on this first Saturday. At least it's a night out on the raz. Drowning ones sorrows after watching our 4-5-1 huff and puff and failing to blow the house down. If you want an indepth rundown on the first match go read the Official Site, or All Quiet, or Frankie or Valley James. I can't really be bothered to talk about whether Bent will struggle as a lone gunman, whether we should put Dennis upfront to complement Bent, whether we need a new centre half, why we are wearing white ... or whether the best form of transport is plane, train or automobile.

And as for Fantasy Football ... you are definitely taking the piss.

It all ends tonight. Yep Big Brother crawls over the finishing line, like the proverbial damp squib. Eugene took the money, like anybody would have said NO ... get over yourself, Makosi is an actress, bothered, wateva, loser, wannabe, Craig is still biatching for England ... did you see his mother blame editing for his portrayal as an idjut? And Kinga in that cheerleaders outfit ... whooosh, it's the hottest day of the year.

Oh, I'm still having problems getting my sofa. I'll be writting about this next week ... it should give some of you a laugh.

My tune of the day: Luv 4 2 - Michael Watford

Phones and tings ...

Somewhere down the line I have got it into my head that I need to upgrade and get a new phone. I don't really, the Nokia I am using is good, easy, and does what it says on the tin. But I've had it for a year so it's that time. Well here's where the problems start!!! I've already had two new models and sent them straight back. A nokia without a keypad and a motorola that I couldn't get my head round. I do put myself in these positions. Even Orange who I have been with for the last year have started to pish me off. Charged me an upgrade fee when I shouldn't have been, and then have just informed me that to deliver a new phone would take 3-4 working days!!!! Hello ... what's wrong with Special Delivery?

Oh sod it ... I'm going for the Sony Ericsson K750i on Vodafone. It's easier to change provider as they throw free minutes and reduced line rental at you. Oh hang on ... they are saying the PAC code isn't live any more!!! I'll have to phone Orange again and hang on the line for 15 minutes. Time hanging on the phone, it's great ... allows one to think.

Oh bolloxs do I need a new phone?

So England won the toss and decided to bat. A lovely day, in the sun watching McGrath and Lee toil. If you believe that ... You're Cooksley in disguise.

I'm on the phone to Orange. Why am I leaving? Idiot. He says it will cost me in the long term. Are they going to send the boys round, Oh hold the horses. They are offering me £95 loyalty bonus!!!! £95 to stay with Orange. Should I stay or should I go. Sod it ... I'm like Eugene I'll take the money and run. Easily pleased me.

My tune of the day: For the love of money - The O'Jays

Blimey, I've only gone and sorted the header out ... I am webmaster ...

Fuzzy ...

Back from a spin class. The Wednesday one is always a bit boring, as it's all about seated hill climbs. Not really my bag.

I had a little bit of a play with blogger this morning ... but I'm still not sure some of the graphics I want to upload will work.

Can anyone tell me why in the midst of a lovely sunny week, there are still blokes walking around with rain coats and golfing umbrellas? What is that all about. The same blokes wear their staff passes round their neck. Maybe I'm missing something?

My tune of the day: Punch Up - Laid

The boy Bowman ... Blackpools finest?

It's actually quite laughable the things that happen back at young Claires house!!! At what point did the boy Bowman get caught up in this garb? That must have been when I was outside watching the drug bust, or down the chicken shop. Or maybe it was when I was outside marrying Poppy and Trevor ... answers on a postcard.

I'm actually tingling at the moment with the thought of the Footie season upon us. A trip to Sunderland is winnable, but this is Charlton ... and if you remember when we actually went up first time, the Saints of Southampton came calling thinking the same, and were sent hone on the wrong end of a 5-0 scoreline. It's a long way to Sunderland for a crap performance. It's a long way to watch us huff and puff in a 4-5-1 formation ... you know that's what will happen. But I'm still a bit tingley.

I sat down to watch BB last night, and think the show has gone on a couple of weeks too long. It's not even interesting viewing. Watching Makosi, Eugene, and Craig take it in turns to ball. All we want is someone with some balls to stand up.

supposedly this Friday is going to be a scorcher ... so it will be flip-flop day around South London.

My tune of the day: Testify - Romanthony

It's an afternoon/ evening out in East London. Styling and profiling ... you can have some fun Hackney way.

It was an interesting weekend. Lashings of red wine, England nearly throwing away the Ashes series, Charlton crashing to their first defeat in a pre-season friendly ... and a KFC for Sunday lunch.

I won't even entertain the Simon Jordan debate. I know what sort of bloke he is, you know what sort of bloke he is ... but still there are some sympathisers. One email from the PO list states

"Jordan's very long on his own rhetoric as he showed in his article in the Observer yesterday, but the article in terms of its readability and its contents was far more lively and far more pertinent than the turgid blandness of Curbs columns last season."

Yes, I believe so. But what do we want from our manager, our chairman, our club? Cutting edge, er .. edgyness? Curbs telling a warts and all account of his day to day tet a tets with Euelly, Fanny and Merv. Telling us what he really thinks of Arse, and Jose. No, we don't. Well I don't. I want a bit of respect, respect for us as customers ... it's football, not World War 3 ... but tell that to Jordan.

I hope you all watched the final half hour of the Second test yesterday. The way England huffed and puffed, eventually grabbing that final wicket. It was finger biting stuff, even Barn would have been proud.

I've just been sent a pic of Timbo last week. I'll have to clear it before I stick it up ... but it made me laugh.

My tune of the day: I wish I didn't miss you - Angie Stone

Or not as the case might be. Typically Bern put a cat amongst the pigeons yesterday, when he said that he only gives his blog address out to selected people. Graham did then wonder what the point was, but poor old Bornie took a bit of a pasting on the Netadicks board about his fences. He even suggested that I had created a false persona to start the muck raking. Like I've got nothing better to do.

So England are back on track in the Ashes series? It's a question not a statement. Because I think they should have been looking to post 500 plus. Not one of their top batsmen got to post a big score. But that's England I suppose. It should be an interesting day.

It seems I got a shout out on the Forever Charlton site yesterday. Although I'm not primarily a Charlton only blog, I do talk about my Charlton experience. But they put me up as riscardo.co.uk and not by the page title The King of Sweden. Not a major concern but just big enough to grate on me.

I can't believe it's the weekend already. After last weeks, two day soiree I may have a quiet one. Saying that, life is but a moment.

I was a bit bored with Big Brother last night. Sitting there watching Craig, bitch and moan, moan and bitch is not good entertainment. He constantly has a go at Eugene then Derek, but in reality he is the one that should be shown the door. I think I've had enough of it .... so I'll be watching Smackdown tonight instead.

My tune of the day: Amazing love - Anane

Reach for the stars ...

It will be interesting viewing when we turn up t the Stadium of Light on 14 August. Another season in the Premier league, expectation levels at a high. What will this year bring? European football ... dear god, relegation!!!! But this is Charlton, so anything can happen. What we will now is that up one end of the Stadium will be sitting the best goalscorer we've had down the Valley since Killer back in the days. Yep, Sir Clive will be using voucher 1 in his Sunderland season ticket book, hoping his boys put one over on us. It's been a few years now since Clive left. We've had Andy Hunt playing up front. The boy Lisbie, Jeffers ... but no one to write home about. That is ... until now.

This is said with some hope, but what we saw last night actually left me with a smile on my face. A striker willing to lead the line. A striker willing to have a shot, to run the channels, to get his head on the end of it. Even a striker that romances Lady Luck. Step forward Darren Bent. Let's hope that I haven't put a mockers on him.

I arrived back home last night just in time to catch the last 15 minutes of BB. I turned on, and watched as Craig and Anthony had another Lovers Holiday. I nearly choked on my super noodles however when Craig piped up ...

"There is a famous saying in history ... fortune favours the bold!!!!"

Blimey, I must have missed that one. It's like watching then chuckle brothers with these two, to you, to me ...

Now, it amused me a day or so ago that Kevin left a comment about this rose wine thingamy. For about 9 months Kev has been banging on about how Rose is the new black, and is very fashionable in Sweden. A bit like crayfish, and meatballs. Kev drinks rose wine whilst wearing a stripy shirt stroke jumper. Fashionable to the uneducated no doubt, but really Kev you are missing out on a lot being in the land of the Volvo. Drinking Rose is not about being fashionable. It's about being cheap. Drink Belvedere Vodka ... or Greygoose. Or a sloeberry gin. Come on Kev kep up.

I received my new Motorola V3 phone. I hated it so I sent it back. Surely there must be a phone out there that I like? Yea, the one I already have !!!!

My tune of the day: Fly Away - Billy Love

So there we have it, no fanfare, no announcement ... just the pics up on the website and info that you can buy them on Saturday. I do like it though. Even though it looks like Liverpools from two years ago!!!! No, I never thought that, but that's what someone said on Netaddicks. I'm sure we wore white/ black back in the 60's and 70's and even the 90's. I like it, and on this page that's all that matters.

Whilst I'm on about Netaddicks, there seems to be a consensus for Bern to bring his picture blog back. Come on Bern ... Just do it.

I hope you were all watching Big Brother last night? Has there ever been such a person after their 15 minutes more than Kinga. Tits oooot, simulated sex with a bottle ... squatting on the dinner table!!!! Poor old Derek and Eugene. Both have had a part to play in this seasons BB but now one is out leaving Kinga in there. She should be booted out. Just for being a wrongun. She's not big (well her tats are) and she's deffo not clever. And it's embarrassing. It really is one of those, need to turn the TV over moments.

I've decided to go to the Valley tonight so I may need to tape tonight's BB. Decisions, decisions ...

My tune of the day: South Bronx - BDP

Superficial people

It seems that everyone has a point to make about ever subject. Whatever the information, people like to spout off. Whether it's about the latest fad for striped shirts and rose wine or the London bombings or even the latest gross murders in London and Liverpool. Someone call the fashion police there's a man outside in socks and sandals. Is that it, is that all she wrote? Wear what you want, but wear it with pride. It's only people who aren't comfortable with themselves that will mock, people who move as a pack, the ones who sy they smoked because off peer pressure. What a load of bunkum!!!

Now I say this because as usual I logged onto Netaddicks this morning. Just to find the latest on Bernies fences really. It's actually a Charlton Athletic message board, so you can learn all the latest bits of gossip, like Andy Johnson at Palarse has signed a new 5 year deal, that Charlton are after Marcus Bent, that some murders and more important than others!!!! What?? Is that right? Nope, not from my angle it's not. But some people do get over excited about "What the papers say." Netaddicks is not your usual message board. Oh no. It's the life and soul for some people. In fact you can learn much more about people you meet on there than people would be willing to show face to face. But hey, who am I to judge. There's quite a thread growing about the unfortunate Murder in Liverpool and comparing it to the murder that took place on a bus in London. Both ... no not both, ALL murders don't enter my psyche. Can you imagine stabbing someone, or sticking an axe in someone's head? No ... nor can I. I don't get it. Whether someone is black, white, marcian, atheist it makes no sense to me. That's why I surround myself with like minded people. Friends. I have views, but I mainly keep them to myself. There's no point in me antagonizing people just for the sake of it. I should stop laughing there shouldn't I.

Now hang on. Let's get back to normality. Big Bro. Kinga .. what a star. She's going to win. You know it, I know it ... even Craig knows it.

Oh well ... it's nearly time for Body Attack at the gym. If you haven't tried it do.

My tune of the day: Whatcha gonna do - Jon Cutler & Michael Watford

Judge and jury ...

It's quite funny how some people think that they will be judge and jury. You look one way, you are branded ... lok another you're typically labeled as one of them. If you say one thing, or use a phrase or saying you must be this or that, and then people who think they are better than you point it out. It's the same as being a Charlton fan. If you don't go to friendlies you don't care, you're not really a fan ... you are a johnny come lately, you come by Valley Express and you just buy the latest shirt, you never saw Morty play.

Well guess what ... I say sod off. Move down the bus please, but have you're ticket ready for viewing.

I had one of those outfits on at the weekend, a pastel yellow shirt, white boots, brown tweed jacket but still people want to judge. Me ... bothered ... whatever, loser.

I had one of them weekend. It never stopped but ended up going ever so quick. From the full english on Saturday morning through to a curry being ordered on Sunday evening. It was totally full on. The mock marriage of Trevor and Poppy, I say mock but I had to admit I wasn't really a clergy so I couldn't really do it, the drugs bust in Plaistow ... it was a weird one to say the least.

But the best thing, no football and no Big Brother. So I didn't see Kinga get thrust back in, up front next to Franny Jeffers.

My tune of the day: Deliver me - Michael Proctor

Strange but true

It appears that some girls flip their pants!!!

Oh and Happy Birthday

Leading from the front

It's been aone of those weeks!!! No time to breathe, no bleedin' time to doa anything. It's August more or less, there goes the first half of the year. It's all down hill until Christmas.

I've had a quick look at the Charlton Website this morning, and we've only gone and signed a 5 year agreement with a Chinses team to form an academy in Shanghi. What a surprise ....? That's my little joke. Blimey, an academy in China, one in Arizona, and in Spain ... a TV deal we really are making a stand for the small clubs. I pitty the Wall though. It seems like Sid James is talking over at the New London Stadium, it's Carry on up Zampa Road.

Another friendly tomorrow. Away at Watford. Not for me. I've had my share of walking around the allotments thanks. I'll leave that to the New Model Army of fans.

I've had a mare with my phones lately. I ordered a Nokia 7710 through o2. They did a credit check and wouldn't give it to me. Worrying. So I ordered it on Vodafone. Here it is, a tad large but hey what a phone. The only problem being that I had to port my number over at point of sale. Did they tell me this ...? NO!!!! So I can't keep my number. Sod that. I've cancelled it and stayed with Orange. I changed to the Motorola V3 phone. But it's Motorola, I'll given them a chance.

My tune of the day: Elements of Life - Louie Vega

Feeling good ...

Blimey, where's the day gone? I've been that busy I haven't had time to come on here and ramble. That's a shock I'm sure to most of you, but it's been a busy Thursday. You get me!!!!

I didn't even get time to go to the gym. I'll have to make up for it tomorrow with a marathon spin class.

I ordered a new phone and I got declined .... ho hum.

My tune of the day: No way back - Adonis

JUST ORDERED THIS

One specially for the Hither Green Massive ... now you can all get your hands on that Carl Bean toon.

Motown Disco

You know it makes sense.

Seeing dead people ...

That's what it was like at Loftus Road. Maybe people have had enough of the Subuteo stadium. I know I have. I remember Granto spending most of one match banging on the back of the stand corrugated wall. That was the same game as Mark Garvey, he who had drum being forcibly thrown out and taking a beating to boot. QPR, QPR ... QP ... hahahahahahah. Sod you West London muppets.

I also had the misfortune to turn talksport on again last night. I forgot that I had tuned it in on the radio and as I jumped in the bath I had the strains of James Whale spouting his nonsense. Sometimes I do wonder why they allow this idiot on the radio, then you remember that it's a Rupert Murdock tool. Both the radio station and James Whale. He spends most of the time dissing the BBC and liberals. That's liberals with a small l, people who have a tolerance level and are not scared to jump to conclusions. I did shake my head when a mini cab driver from Clacton on Sea was indicating that the Brazilian fella got what he was asking for, given that he had a so called big jacket on and didn't stop even when the "Police" said so. I wasn't there so I can't say what did or didn't happen, but when you read that 5 Sikhs had been marched off a tourist bus in Times Square because they looked a bit dodgy, you know what you are dealing with. We live in troubled times especially as one girl wrote in the Metro ... You look a bit foreign!!!!! Oh to be a white, male, middle class geezer ... er, I think not.

I'm still being fascinated by Big Brother. It's actually getting a bit boring now they are all getting along. Even Orlaith hasn't got her Charlies out lately. Saskia, Maxwell .. who they???

Don't you just love this weather? I actually put the central heating on this morning, just to get rid of the dampness in the air. Oh and hopefully my sofa will be delivered soon.

My tune of the day: Thru The Rain - Soul Creation Feat. Kenny Bobien

Arf' .. arf ...

Blimey,I've had the accountant in all day ... busy busy. It's off to QPR tonigh so I'll come back at ya tomorrow ...

My tune of the day: I'll do anything - Todd Terry

It's a beautiful day ...

As I said earlier, I did have a lot to say today, about cricket and shit. But I know I would have had the rath of Cooksley telling me how crap the West Indies are. Yes, yes ... we know that but how on earth England thought they were going to win the Ashes is another story. Did you see Ian Bell? What was that all about. A batsman who can't ready the flight of the ball. Where's Thorpey when you need him. Oh, don't even go there.

James Whale ... what a muppet. I had the misfortune of turning Talksport on tonight. Never agin I tell thee.

Ho hum ...

A hell of a lots happened over the last few days. I had so much to say, but you know what ... I can't be arsed.

That's not big, it's not clever ... but I'll be back tomorrow once I've digested it all ...

My tune of the day: Give Me Your Love - Black Mighty Orchestra feat. Be Noir

What a day ....

Well typically the cricket descended into a farce, then we had people trying to blow themselves up on the tube and luckily failing.

Fourteen wickets in a day, Chris Tavare would be turning in his grave. Piertersons innings this morning summed it up when he tried to blast every ball and eventually fell short. I'm telling you it will be all over by lunch on Sunday. One nil and a mountain to climb.

So, the whole of London is in turmoil as suicide bombers are on the loose. Quite a striking statement but one with some grain of truth. I can't get my head around the fact that they all escaped without someone having a pop at them. Given that my mum was up visiting my bro in Shepherds Bush it hit home a bit too hard. There will come a time when we aren't going to stand for this any more. I can just feel it.

It was interesting to see Orlaith sucking up to Science last night on BB. She's had a go at Makosi, Kemal and Derek about playing games, but she's the biggest player in there. So people don't be fooled by her crocodile tears, vote the boring idiot out ... keep Science safe. You know it makes sense.

The Netaddicks board has been down for the best part of 12 hours. Seems a bit strange, but I'm at a lose with no Charlton chat. It's also interesting to note that Charlton haven't been linked with any new signings this week. No paper talk, no speculation ... nothing. Oh well ...

I had a letter from Sky yesterday. They are putting my subscription up by three pounds. Oh well.

My tune of the day: Lovin You (Re Edit) - Johnny Guitar Watson

Ruck sacks

There I am watching the test as a news alert comes up on the screen. Two weeks and some people can't let it lie. Caught with wires stiicking out of their bags, not big and not clever.

I could say string them up, but that doesn't solve anything. It's not good, not good.

Temptation ...

It's the day that all cricket fans have been waiting for. The start of the Ashes series. As I sit here the Australians have just scored their first 50 runs for the fall of one wicket. Something tells me it's going to be a long summer. At least it's on Channel 4 ... I can put it on in the office. Yeeha.

I'm thinking about going to Brentford on Saturday. However I do want one of them lazy weekends, where I can bum round in my pj's and do nothing. However there is housework to be done, and the conservatory needs a good cleaning. My life ... and fast lane come to mind.

They are now 66 for two, maybe a tad batter.

Question ... why do women bound up flights of stairs. I saw this pretty random this morning doing three steps at a time. Unsightly it was, pretty it wasn't. Why do fat people always eat. There was Joe Tex and his girls on the train this morning, and each one of them was eating.

No new signings coming the Addicks way, even though there were a couple of offers on the table. We've had five days without one ... come on Curbs sort it out!!!!!!

I caught some of the new BBC series Full on food last night. An interesting concept, in the style of Top Gear. I thought it was a bit laddy but quite interesting.

I am loving Big Brother at the moment. The way Science is winding everyone up, and just doing his thing reminds me of the way I would be in the house. I would be just like that, but worst. It's like playing Russian Roulette but come on it's worth it.

Blimey its 74 for four, heady days.

My tune of the day: Pull my hair - Ying Yang Twins

Wonders never cease ...

Peter Crouch ... seven million!!! What lira? Now I just don't get it. He's a big target man and Liverpool need this sort of player, according to Rapha, but per-lease.

I saw him once at the Red Cube Bar in Leicester Square. It was when he was at QPR. It was a thursday, and he was mangled. But then again he earns shed loads of money, and has Page Three beuties fighting over him. That's definately a head shaking moment.

The tour of the South Coast continues with a 5-1 win at Torquay. Some more goals, bonding, team building. Let's hope they get it right before the Sunderland game.

I've just signed up for the Netaddicks fantasy football league the code is 63927-12570 if you want to get involved. Go on give it a go ...

Right. I've not spoken about Big Bro for a few days, mainly because I generally watch the programme open mouthed. Is this real I ask? It seems that some of them have forgotten that it is actually a game, where the winner takes home a shit load of wonga. So the whole point is to beat, or maybe outlast your opponents. Can someone please tell Orlaith and Kemal. Orlaith is like two tits on a stick. She was in tears last night because she was missing her family!!!!! HELLO, SHE'S BEEN IN THEIR 3 WEEKS. That's a holiday, not a hardship. Kemal is adamant that Makosi is a mole/ plant .. whatever. Girlfriend ... (sic) ... move on. Now in reality because that's what it is ... it's a great show. It's an ongoing soap. You get to grow with the participants, but I'd really hate to be in there. To deal with Derek, who must be the bluest Black man ever. Has he ever interacted with a black person before? Answers on an afro please. Craig, now what's he all about. The only gay in the village ... I'm sure he's never left Hicksville before, so cannot understand Science and his rants. Which are the most entertaining thing in the damn place.

Oh yeah, did you see Craig throwing one down last night ... yukkk.

Oh sod it ... when's the footie season start ... ?

My tune of the day: Everything - Glen Lewis feat. Mjojo & Bongani

Time and time again ...

Commuting has never been the best of things to do. Smelly suits, ignorant orange women applying makeup, back packs, bikes, garlic ... phantom readers .... yes, the list is endless. But after the happenings of a few weeks ago, we are able to put these things on the back burner. That is until we fall back into a routine. Then the temperature rises and we are all selfish once more. The bloke with the bike wasn't on the train this morning. But a bloke with a broadsheet was. He wanted to read it and being inconvenienced by people wanting to get on a train, wasn't going to stop him. He folded, unfolded the damn thing, then at London Bridge was seen climbing the stairs continuing to read the monster. Oh some people.

Women ... never happier than when slagging off men. Old Roof this morning indicated that women like to be chatted up. But not by Ugly blokes!!!!! So should we as men all be judged. On a scale of 1 to 5 and only blokes wearing 4 and 5's are allowed to chat women up!!! When I brought this up I was chastised as a bloke, who just doesn't get it!!!! Well, I have to admit, what women want ... who knows?

I was thinking about going to Torquay tonight. No I lie. It's hard enough to go to Welling, and I still need my sleep.

I'm still hurting from the weekend. My legs are stiff and I feel about 30. Oh well.

I hope you have all read Lars comments about his love of all things feminine? Jesus ...

My tune of the day: I Get Lifted - Barbara Tucker

The last one out please turn off the light ...

Well what a weekend. My legs ache, as well as my belly and my head. If there was a competition for drinking Jack and lemonade we would have done better than the football.

It was Worldnet 2005. It was up at Boddington Hall in Leeds and there were 64 teams taking part. There was the smell of soiled nylon all over the place. Football tops, what ever happened to good old fashioned cotton? Oh I do love it oop North.

It was actually nice to spend time with the CIFC boys. Even if they do prefer middle of the road to progressive dance, who am I to complain. Typically the football wasn't up to much but it's the taking part that counts. Right?

We got up to Leeds on Friday afternoon. Given that it was Matts birthday I think he did well in driving all the way. We then had to meet PQ and did so in the Original Oak pub. It was here that the drinking started, when you could get two doubles for just under a fiver. The barmaids were quality. If you chat nonsense to them they remember you, and when there's a dirty big queue just use your charms to get your drinks early doors. Quality. A few hours were also spent in the Walkabout, where Mr Hart drank strawberry Mudchutes for a pound. Not so much quality, as quantity. As for Matt, he embarrassed himself by rolling around in the mud outside. Well it was his birthday.

How we all got up to play football is another question, one that I'm still trying to work out. But I think I should skip the football to mention the bus ride back to the hotel. There you have 15 knackered fellas in a bus just looking forward to a shit/ shower and a few beers. We stop at some lights, as a couple of girls wearing deely boppers walk past. Que bloke reaction. After a rendition of "Get ya tits out" - yes I know, not big nor clever ... we witnessed a rather large pair being flashed in our direction. Well as they say in If you don't ask land ... if you don't ask.

It's just dawned on me that I actually went to watch Welling vs Charlton on thursday evening. It seems so long ago now. It was just a stroll played on grass that was so long that it looked like my back garden, but a 1-1 draw wasn't the best of results. However you do really have to laugh at the people who seem to take this too seriously, and begin to mean. Get over it, and enjoy the win at Bournemouth.

Charlton actually confirmed the Alexi Smertin loan on friday. It seems that competition for places is hotting up. It should be an interesting season. I say should.

How tired can one man be? I am absolutely shattered. I think I need a holiday.

Oh and it's my brothers birthday. So happy birthday Garfield ...

My tune of the day: - Love Will Save The Day - Jaque

After the Lord Mayors show ...

So I go down to Brighton to see my Mum. No day infront of a PC, sitting out by the sea, cockles and muscles alive, alive oh. And what happens? Yep, a sea mist stroke fog ... all bleedin' day. I couldn't believe it. So I fell asleep in the front room, dreaming of sunshine and dusky maidens.

It's been a hive of activity down at Sparrows Lane. They've brought in Jonathan Spector, yep, about to sign Gonzalo Sorondo, blimey ... and Curbs is still calling for 4 to 5 new signings. I think he's understanding what really needs to happen. At last!!!! We need some young lads that have got things to prove. Get them wanting to play, wanting to perform ... and you never know. If you play average players a large sum they won't be bothered. We need players that actually want to play for Charlton, and the supporters. Maybe then we'll get people paying to watch us play away.

Good luck Curbs ...

So guess where me and some of the CIFC lads will be this weekend? No!!! Oh well, we'll be in Leeds. It's the annual Worldnet footie tournament, and I'm taking my boots. Why? Your guess is as good as mine, but as they say in hey-ho land ... hey ho.

As I was driving back from Brighton last night, I began to wonder why we need big gas guzzling cars. Why do people have these great big 4x4's and sit in the outside lane not moving. Why do we then have boy racers in their bright red BMW's undertaking? Cutting in and out of traffic as the Police sit in laybyes drinking tea. Oh well ... it made the journey go quicker.

I actually bought some new curtains. Well my Mum did, but they are in fact the first new set of curtains I've ever owned. Now my life is complete ...

My tune of the day: Dub Massai Style - Bobby Konders

What time is it ...?

In reality we are all getting back to normal. The trains are packed, the same po faced blokes, women doing their makeup. Rock on, is what I say. I even took to wearing beige ... no it wasn't beige but Buckshee thinks so, oh well.

Even down at New Eltham we seem to have gone full circle. After he who was f'n quality left to go to the 'Appy 'Ammers we needed some left back cover. So Big Al decided better the devil you know. Arise Sir Chris Powell. Lets be 'avin you ... the King is dead long live the KING. Chris Powell has come back. A one year deal with hope of some coaching thrown in. Now please tell me this makes sense. Of course it does. A left back is a left back, and as much as we wish we had Roberto Carlos, a left back ain't gonna win us the Champions League. Welcome home Chris.

That was our signing of the day. All this paper talk of Alexi Smertin was just that. Then as I was in the CO-OP buying some lightbulbs I got a call from Mush In da Bush. So who's this Spector bloke you've just signed? He's from UManU and he's with you for a year. So who's this we all ask. Jonathan Spector. A native of Chicago ... we will be liaising with Chicago Addick to monitor his progression. We are becoming a team of Darrens and Jonathans.

Oh and back to Big Brother. I forgot to mention about Maxwell being booted out on Friday. I would say that it was a shock to me given the Chav culture we live in, but one that restores my faith in mankind. I'm actually loving the way that Science is now winding Orlaith up. Yep, Orlaith you deserve it gal. All she does it whack her thrups out which in my book is great TV, but please do something else. They say that Vanessa is boring, but at least she bitches ...

Oh and a new Melon will be stocked by Tesco from this week. A graciosa which has yellow flesh, few seeds and a hint of citrus. Mother Nature must be doing cartwheels.

So the first pre-season friendly takes us to Welling on Thursday. It's always a good one to start and for me allows me to see some of the players that Welling have signed in the summer. I would say that last years 8-0 victory showed what a struggle Welling were going to have over the year. It was by far the worst performance from them against the mighty Addicks, ever. Bar none. But this year Adrian Pennock has been active in the market, despite the loss of Paul Booth, and brought in a few new faces. It will be interesting. I'll see you all there ...

My tune of the day: Holding On (When Love Is Gone) - L.T.D

Keeping it real ...

It's another week, and it appears more things are back to normal than not. The trains were packed, people were sweating and stinking, there were backpacks galore, fat peeps two to the dozen ... and England lost the cricket.

I played some ball on Saturday morning. I say played, I ran the channels, peeled off Mr Atoe but couldn't hit a cows arse with a barn door. It was one of those days. It was good to actually get a run out, and to actually play with a bit of composure but my finishing ... well if Lisbie can do it for a living I can do it on astroturf once every now and again. We actually played some good stuff, ending up 6-0 victors but we are going to have to up our game if the Charlton Internet boys are going to progress up in Leeds at Worldnet this weekend. It's going to be fun though.

There was even word that us Charlton fans are going to be astounded by a signing or two. This was after the siging of Darren "Curtley/ Leroy" Ambrose on Friday evening. Well things are looking up ... well I'm watching this space.

It looks like a blinding day weather wise ....

My tune of the day: Time - Dajae

In reality Ken Livingstone is a strange politician. Red Ken, Look out for Leftie yeah, yeah we know ... we know. But if you had seen his address of the situation you would realise that he does care. He is a Londoner, representing Londoners ... every single one of us.
Now if you swap Ken for one George Galloway, you get what exactly? A war mungerer, a vile horrible individual who has been elected to represent a part of London. Now if I lived in Bethnal Green would I want my MP coming out shouting that Londoners has paid the price for Tony Blair ignoring his warnings. But was George on the tube or the bus yesterday? Did George leave his offices close to Aldgate to lend a hand with the injured and the dead? No of course he didn't. It's an absolute disgrace that someone like this is in politics.
So how long will it take for us to get back to some sort of normality? A week, a month ... a year? Me, I got up at my normal time, had a normal cup of tea ... put on my normal clothes (yeah right!!) and got my normal train. It was empty. I then got off an Cannon Street and took the Tube to Aldgate East. I would say it was a bit quiet, and everyone was eyeing everyone else. But door to door it was 35 minutes. I was in the office eating my sausage sandwich by 08:30. Let's be 'avin you as Delia would say. You can't keep a good man/ city down.
Its Ruths birthday and she's having a meal out tonight. Claire says it's a laid back afair and they are all going home after. None of this 3 day affair. Let's wait and see. Anyway Happy Birthday Roof.
Back to Big Brother. It's Science vs Maxwell. Two of the characters up for eviction as Vanessa and Orlaith sit on doing what exactly?
Football. Stop. Charlton. Stop. Oh, anyway it seems we are being linked with Darren Ambrose of Newcastle. A fee agreed etc, but we've heard that before. I won't believe it until I see it.
My tune of the day: Maybe it's Because I'm a Londoner - Hubert Gregg

London ...

It's a great city.

I'm watching a press conference on TV, and I understand that there is a job to do, but some of the questions are ... well, at best awfull. After repeating that no one had officially come forward to take responsibility for the bombings, someone asked if any arrests had been made. The look on the spokesmans face told more than a thousand pictures.

I've just seen a picture of the queues for boats at Canary Wharf, and it's not funny.

It seems like it's going to be a long walk.

Reality check ...

So I'm sitting here, watching the news as the whole of London is brought to a stand still. There are bombs, bomb alerts, power surges, but in general Londoners take it all in their stride. No mass hysteria. Then you look at the Netaddicks board. Sometimes, just sometimes you need to take a step back and think about those people affected first.

There's not a lot one can say really, it's horrible ... but since 9/11 it just been simmering waiting to happen.

So now we have conspiracy theorists. It's the M15, Israel knew before we did. The internet is such a wonderful place. It's quite amazing watching this when it's about 3 minutes away from where I sit. People have died at the tube station I use. I sit here quite humble, thinking about the people who have perished ... and now it's raining.

I may try and see if the DLR is working.

I haven't played any music so I don't feel like a tune of the day ...

Get in there ...

Although people are already moaning. It wouldn't be Britain without people moaning. Just watch the negativity in the Daily Mail tomorrow morning ...

Todays the day ...

The Teddy Bears have their picnic. No, no ... I jest, todays the day that we, as Londoners find out if we will be awarded the Olympics in 2012. Now how anyone can say they don't want it is beyond me. Sod the transport system, sod Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and all these tin pot Northern hovels ... Derek on BB was so right, we need to have a big Sporting event in the UK, and in the capital ... London. It will make us money, damn right it will.

Fingers crossed people, there's two hours to go.

It seems that Charlton are once again in transfer termoil. They can't sign anyone for love nor money, so have to come up with stories about Lee Bowyer. It appears that Tony Gardner from the sPUDZ has a long standing injury, and now it's Stuart Elliott of Hull. It's the damned Internet, all this speculation is no good. We need good hard facts, and until they appear on the Official site, it is just pie in the sky. But they do need to act soon. It's the first pre-season match next Thursday, so we need some sort of incentive to go. Oh well, let's all hang onto the thought of Lee Bowyer "My word is my bond" making a comeback.

So I was sat down last night watching Big Brother, and Makosi announces that she is pregnant. Hmmmmph. I would say that she has been playing a blinder up until now, but this makes her out to be one complete nutcase. One shag and within minutes she's preggers. What a muppet. She even fcuked up Eugenes secret challenge. I would say that there are so many secret challenges that it makes it a mockery. How are you supposeed to mimic someone as a secret challenge. It would be so damn obvious. Oh and Saskias in the paper with her baps out. Well she's got on a see through bra but we get where she's coming from. Let's hope she takes her fat arse and enjoys her 15 minutes. I say vote Maxwell this week. Get that muppet out.

Oh my Mum just called and said she's seen some curtains. I asked her to keep an eye out a few days ago. Mums are great for things like that. I haven't the foggiest idea about curtains, apart from they sit in the window and you pul them shut at night. They are supposedly chocolate brown ... just what I want.

My tune of the day: Caribs leap - Ian Friday

I ran the world ...

But I didn't get very far.

There are some terrible smells around London at the moment. Cannon Street has been stinking for a week or so, Aldgate always has a slight pong, but generally the whole of East London smells of Sour Grapes. I'm not sure how they expect the Olympians to compete in them there conditions?

There was a bloke with a laptop bag on his shoulder today. He was on my packed train and everytime the train chugged it went crashing into all and sundry. Why don't people put their bags down?

Oh some transfer activity ... at last. Paul Konchesky, you know him of "He's fcukin' quality" fame, has bypassed the Blackwall Tunnel queues and gone to the Appy Ammers. Fairs, fair really. I remember Konch blasting that penalty up into the top tier a few years back. They deserve each other. Fifteen grand a week, for a mediocre left back!!! Chris Powell at his best Konch was not. I don't really think he actually fulfilled his potential. Curbs'fault no doubt?

Oh, I've just read that a quarter of Britains men are in denail about their weight problem. Bollocks ...

Max and Saskia !!!! What's that all about???

My tune of the day: Acid Over - Tyree

It's a sad day ...

So after all the excitement of Live 8, is it me or do artists like Dido, Pete Doherty, even Sir Paul have a difficulty in holding a note, we find that maybe our generations best vocalist, Luther Vandross has passed away. Luther came to being as a backing vocalist for David Bowie in 75 but it was in 1980 that he sang lead on Changes "Glow of Love." I remember that track being played at Southport last November, and I have to say what a tune it is. A classic. Sgt Peper wasn't fit to lace Luthers boots. Hey, but thats a personal thing.

I saw JK over the weekend over at Clapham Common. I've never been one for the Pratt in the Hat, but he did ok, but it was Joey Negro who stole it for me with some stunners in a two hour set.

It was surprising to log onto the Official Charlton site this morning and see the new kit. Still adorned with the Allsports logo. Now all the speculation about the kit being launched on Thursday with some new players, and a new sponsor ... well that just goes to show what a load of old bollies it actually is.

Supposedly Konch is off to the Appy Ammers, and we are signing, er .... hmmm ... hmph, er, nobody. It will all come out in the wash.

My tune of the day: I who have nothing - Luther Vandross

Of da hook ...

After getting tom work, I turned round and came home. Just didn't feel chipper today ...

Oh well ...

My tune of the day: Silence is golden ... by someone

Schwizzle me nizzle ...

So if you see a woman struggling with a buggy at a train station and she is trying to carry it up/ or down some stairs would you help? Even if she had two other kids around her doing what kids do best?

Yes you would ... I know you would.

What about a bloke with a bike? Trying to carry it over teh stairs at a train station, would you help him?

Yes? No ... ?

I found out today that Pam Grier lived in Swindon between 1956 and 1958. Blimey that must have been a reality check.

I think I might settle down and watch the England/ Australia final on Saturday. It could be a tad explosive ... so I may try and catch some of it through the rain drops.

Whilst the pre-season winds on ... and on, and on ... Charlton will tonight find out if Greenwich Council give them the go ahead for 4,000 more seats, a new business information centre, creche and college facilities, an extra 30 executive boxes plus a 'living wall'. All very interesting, and it's one of them situations when we actually get to see if the local authority are really backing Charlton, or whether it's all pie in the sky. I know that there has been opposition from local residents but I for one don't understand what these people who bought or rented a property near a football ground thought they were getting!!!!

Oh and there still hasn't been any new signings. Apart from Kevin Phillips going to Villa, Per Kroldrup going to Everton, Heidar Helguson going to Foolham, and finally Mehdi Nafti to Brum!!!!

I've got more enjoyment in seeing who Welling have been signing, trying to sign. Adrian Pennock seems to have made more of a stir than Paul Parker, but then again what do I know?

My tune of the day: Beyond The Clouds - Mr Fingers

Stick it in the family album ....

Right, I've just come off the phone to Sky. I wanted to see what deal they could do for an updgrade to Sky+. It's total bollox. Yes sir, no sir ... oh I agree sir, but it'll still cost you £99 and a multiroom subscription of £10 a month. Yep, that works in a one bedroom flat. I could stick the other box in the toilet just in case I get caught short. But new customers can get the damn thing for £89. Yep, typically they want to poach all the NTL muppets but couldn't give a flying about their existing customers ... or passengers if you will.

Sky ... you can stick it up your a$$.

Oh, I'm still asking the question why do people wear their staff passes when they are on the way to work? On a chain around their neck!!!!

And why do people walk in a zigzag fashion? Walk in a bleedin' straight line.

Guess what!!! Still no new signings, nothing, zilch ... not even a sniff. We're all waiting on news on the new kits and new players ... oh how I hate pre-season, and bleedin' Sky still haven't announced what games they are showing on the box. They'd better not.

Why is it that women with lardy asses sit next to me on trains? They pay the same price but take up half my seat as well.

I must have missed the storms last night. I did hear some thunder but then dropped off.

My tune of the day: Take Me Home - Sara Devine

The things you can do with sticky back platsic ... 

Family entertainment ...

It's me it is. But just flicking through the Sun this morning I have realised that they are showing Big Brother on a days delay. So what I saw last night was Sunday and what they have in the paper was from Monday. I don't get it? It's a TV programme but you can read what happens in the paper before you see it. A bit like Eastenders, Corrie and all the damn soaps really.

It now appears that they got rid of Kinga. Well Makosi did anyway.I would say that watching the show Makosi played a blinder. Treating it as an actual game, telling lies when she had to ... it was part of the task, playing the idiot housemates for the fools they actually are ... and generally being the star of the show. To see Maxwell and Saskia lay into her about cider was funny. Even to a point when Saskia said "People like you ..." now what could she have meant ... ?

I also thought it funny that both Maxwell and Anthony were banned from nominating because they had been discussing voting. These are the same two twats who had been riding their chargers all over Derek and Roberto for doing the same. What comes around, etcetera.

Oh and still no new signings. It's all a tad too familiar, and a bit boring. Luckily Sky don't want to show the Sunderland game on TV. So we should be ok to travel up there on a Saturday and have a night out in the toon.

Just a quick question. Is this tennis malarky boring? I just don't get it myself ... oh well.

My tune of the day: The other side - Jihad Muhammad ft Malika Zarra

Is it me ...

Just reading through the Metro and some person ( K Magill, London SW18) is having a go at the London Olympic bid. They spout off that during Wimbledon the District linehas loads of delays and congestion ... blimey, and this is only one sport. Given the Olympics is loads of sports London would grind to a halt.

Blimey, I bet this person sleeps with the light on, reads the Daily Mail but only if they can rescue a copy left on a train, moans about mobile phones ... and would love to go to Glastonbury.

Is it me ... is it, ???

It's a wonderful life ...

Not only a great film, but a great mind set.

After losing that 40 squid on Thursday, the receptionist told me that she found 40 notes in the pub on the same night!!!! Could it be a coincidence?

She gave me the money, so I handed her a tenner and said buy yourself some flowers ... last of the charmers me.

I watched some of that BB stuff over the weekend. Just a few points really. Would you sprinkle scabs in anyone's food ... ever? If you were in the show, got voted out then found someone may have sprinkled scabs in your food, would you be waiting for them with an iron bar? At what point would you let that Craig fella keep on massaging you? At what point would you kick that Saskias a$$? How good is that Kinga?

I had a lovely weekend, primarily over in Cheshunt. Yep I didn't know where it was either. It was Savs party, and he had a BBQ. It lasted the best part of a day and a half, which is all good. Orrin played a blinder with about a 13 hour set. I'm sure I heard a couple of tunes played twice though ...!!!! I didn't even get to have some pie. Sav, it's about time you plumbed in your cooker.

I woke up this morning and made some tea. I then settled down to watch 15 mins of Sky Sports News, but caught the start of a Sammy Davies Jnr special on the performance channel. Some 50 minutes later I was still glued. The bloke was an entertainer, a proper character with talent. He didn't need to go onto a reality game show. Paul Danin, Fran Cosgrove ... where's the talent?

I do hope this weather continues for a few more weeks. You can't beat the sun shining first thing in the morning. It actually puts a smile on my face.

I just received an email from my broadband provider. It appears that they are changing all their 0800 numbers, to new charged-for numbers, 0870. Blimey talk about fleecing your customers. If I ever needed an incentive to change providers here it is.

My tune of the day: I Got My Education - Uncanny Alliance

It's a learning process ...

So do you have a wallet? I do. A nice camouflage one, a bit old now but a handy on none the less. I put loads of bits and bobs in it, cards, dry cleaning tickets, pictures, stuff ... but I tend no to put money in it. Why? Well pardon my French, but fcuk knows!!! I have never put money in my wallet. So when I get home and realise that I've dropped 40 squid out of my pocket what do I do? Yep, I check my wallet. Just in case.

So the moral of the story is put your money in your wallet, or don't. But if you lose it it don't think you'll find it where you didn't put it in the first place.

Oh, still no new signings.

A strange day for sport yesterday. The English cricket team got walloped, but they aren't pannicking ... yet. Henman lost, but Murray won. So there's still one British player (Scot) in the Mens draw. Like I'm bothered.

Oh and make sure you get up early tomorrow to see the Lions get a mauling.

As I look out the window up at the blue sky I hear that it's raining in Glastonbury. That's a shame don't you think. There has been rainfall of about 3-4 cm's. Matts flipflops got washed away ... oh dear. Glastonbury ... nothing there for me.

It may be worth watching Big Bro tonight. They are sticking 3 new people in. NO!!! Maybe you're right ... it's all a load of cods really.

My tune of the day: Big mistake - Alexander Hope

Football, football

So there I was at 10:00 this morning wondering if we would get Man City at home as predicted. Timbo told me that a Scouser he spoke to predicted it would be Liverpool/ Everton. But hey guess what? Yep, it was all smoke and mirrors. It's a trip up to the North East and a return to the Stadium of "Lite" ... yep, it's Sunderland. Well poor old Sir Clive hasn't got long to wait, but I'll guarantee we will hear a few more songs for Michael Gray.

The full first day fixture list is here.

There's still no sign of a new signing. It's actually getting a bit laughable. Now I'm sure Charlton, Curbs, Murray at al have been working like troopers to get some one in, but I think they must be down to the C list by now.

"Hello Mr Coradi, this is Curbs 'ere, from er, Charlton, er you know in the English Premier League?"

**Silence**

"We wan't you to come, and ... er play for us next season, er to link up with, er Franny Jeffers!!!!"

**Silence** ... followed by fits of laughter.

Well you get me, it ain't really happening is it. We've tried up and comers, we've tried squad players ... what next? I for one think we need to go for yougish players 20-25 who may be hungry. Players that aren't on shed loads of money and players that when they sign will be paid a bit more and have a lot to prove. Did Jeffers and Murphy really justify their wages last season? Answers on a postcard.

It's still hot out. It's great fun seeing everyone sweat and fan themselves on the train. Wear linen or soft cotton, not heavy black polyester.

My tune of the day: Always - Quentin Harris ft Robert Owen

Kiss me quick ...

So Farim Alam says that David Davies tried to kiss her. In a lift!!! This was a woman who had an affair with one executive and a sort of one with the England Coach, and then turns up to court with all her cleavage on show. What do I know?

Then we have a 15 year old boy saying his 24 year old teacher forced a snog on him. Jesus what is the world coming to.

It's good to see the England Cricket team continue to build up false hope. Then again when you see these Aussie supporters interviewed before al the games I hope the wheels stay off for this idjuts. No wonder Bernie felt at one over in Aus.

Graeme is going to Canada for a job interview. Just do it!! Stop mithering.

Oh and still no Charlton signings..

I've just had a bit of email banter with the East London lot about where Millwall actually is. They argue that it's South but I point out that Millwall the place, the ward ... not the bleedin football team is in the Isle of Dogs, Tower Hamlett which is East. Oh well ... can't kid a kidder.

Oh and I heard the best eulogy about the smoking reform laws. It's like having urinating and non urinating zones in a swimming pool.

My tune of the day: Promised land - Joe Smooth

Now how good is this ...? 

Things that make you go ....

Why on a hot day do people still see fit to carry umbrellas?

Why on a hot day do fat women wear black?

Why on a hot day do pale looking blokes get their fat guts out?

Why do people on the tube stink?

Why do people wear their staff passes outside work?

Why haven't Charlton signed anyone else ?

My tune of the day: The Greatest Love - George Benson

Traffic Management

So London is a vibrant forward thinking city, full of multi culturalism, forward thinking scholars and shit traffic management. For as many years as I can remember the bleedin Blackwall Tunnel (Southbound) has been shut at 21:00 on a friday, saturday and sunday night. So that means you are forced to take a detour to the Rotherhithe or one of the bridges. Well Saturday night when I wanted to get home, I left Wanstead for what should have been a 20 minute journey to Lewisham and was subjected to a 2 hour 10 minute whackey races type challenge. No Blackwall Tunnel, the Rotherhithe Tunnel clogged and Tower Bridge full of coaches. I had a look at the TFL site to see what the problem was, and they indicate that the project is due to be completed in August 205 some 17 months over. TfL are appologising, ho hum and are pushing for the works to be finished. Pushing, jesus ... surely they should be fining the contractor?

Anyway, what a lovely weekend weather wise. A couple of days of sun definately make you smile. And all the lovely ladies shed their clothes, which is cool. I would say that I spent most of Sunday sitting in a pub, and that was just as good.

Timbo brought me back a couple of teeshirts from Brazil. Just what the Doctor ordered, I'm sure I'll be wearing them when the sun shines some more.

Still no signings on the Charlton front. And what's more we aren't even being linked with anyone. Wel apart from Ben Thatcher. Quickly moving on.

Oh, I caught a glimpse of the cricket over the weekend. Talk about raise your expectations. England have already regained the Ashes ... now that's laughable.

My tune of the day: Love Will Stay - Divinity

Bish bash .. bosh

Still no new signing this week ... or last for that matter. But hey they must know what they are doing, right?

I forced myself to watch BB last night. There must be an eviction imminent as they were all at their scarey best. "Lesbian" snogs!! Camping it up!!! Body sweet eating!!! All very car crash TV ... but why I watch it, I can't tell you. I'm sure Kev will enlighten me though.

I just had a call from Timbo. He touched down at Heathrow and is knackered. It seems he had the flu and was layed up in Rio for 3 days. Although peeps were actually asking after me ... "Where's Hicky?"

It's the last episode of Dr Who tomorrow. I haven't watched the last 6, so I haven't got a clue about Bad Wolf.

It seems like the sun may come out this weekend ...

My tune of the day: Feel - Li'sha Project

Gone fishing ...

Lee Bowyer has gone fishing to decide whether to sign for Brum or not. Ho hum. It also appears that Millwall aren't for George Burley!!! He decided "It's not for him at this present time ..." An even bigger ho hum. Oh and Parker went to Newcastle. That's more of a rye smile me thinks.

I'm siting here eating a Custard Tart. It was given to me by Mondana who cooked a delightful Spicy seafood jambalaya last night. We had a good gos and I was able to open her kitchen window. Fice minutes of skipping a day should work wonders.

I was hoping for a bit of sun today, but it seems like winter wants to persist.

Oh and back to Parker, I noticed on Netaddicks that someone asked whether we had a sell on clause. I think that only works if they make a profit!!!!!

I didn't watch BB or Celebrity Love thingy last night, and I don't think I missed anything ....

My tune of the day: Listen 4 it - Marcus Enochson

ebay .. shmeeebay

I had to laugh ....

I saw this on the Faith mesage board and was nodding along in agreement ...

"Am I missing summat here? Geldorf says that Live8 aint about raising money for charity, its about raising awareness among politicians and public.

The texting lark was about raising money to put the show on. Which they've now done (probably more than enough). Hence, the allocation of the tickets.

Now. Given that the money aint going to charity, who fucking cares whether or not you sell the ticket on and how much you make? Job's been done and paid for. Now its your ticket and if you find some div willing to shell out a monkey to see Elton "10 grand a week on cut flowers" John hamming it up at some emotional wankfest then good luck to yer. "

It wasn't hard to work out that this would happen ... but as they say all publicity is good.

Ten Year and counting ...

So Alan Curbishley has been in sole charge of the Addicks for 10 years. I remember the first game, a friendly away at Barnet, where a few jokers began to sing the Stevie Gritt song. Oh how we laughed. Now I wouldn't have believed what would have happened in 10 years if I hadn't lived it. I'm trying to think back to some of the highlights, but I can only think of the Play Off Final at Wembley. I'm sure I should have given up watching Charlton after this game, it doesn't get much batter than that.

I forced myself to watch Big Brother last night. I'll have to admit I'm feeling the Love Island programme more than BB, just for Paul Danan. I don't really see the point in BB? It's been done, they've all got the tee'shirts and it's not funny any more. I did laugh when they showed Derek, Roberto and Craig plotting!!! If that's plotting well, I would have loved to have seen what Guy Fawlkes got up to. They were having a chat, no more no less. Then to make it interesting BB put the clip of them up for all the housemates to see. They didn't do that last week when that Vanessa bird was harping on. But hey, like I'm that bothered. It's only good for Saskias tits and even then she'd get a kick up the ass.

I'm out for dinner tonight. Over Hackney way. I've been told it's Shellfish ... nice.

Oh!!! Have any of you seen that story about Jermaine Pennant and his mob of unruley footballing chums. Supposedly they ... about 10 of them, are on holiday in Zante. They are out on the pish and he says to a girl, boyfriend in toe, "Alright darling, what are you doing with that muppet?" Well supposedly the boyfriend got him to repeat it and then lamped him one. Now can Steve Bruce tell me what he saw in signing this idiot. He's been in prison, banned from this that and the other, and then carries on acting like this. Football, it's a funny old game.

Oh and then we have Robin Van Persie, I shouldn't laugh.

My tune of the day: Rise above the storm - Kenny Bobien

Aussies crushed ...!!!

Says the back page of the Metro. Yeah ok ... but hold your horses. It was a 20:20 match, a thrashupon, or a thrasharoo. Yes England won by 100 runs but it's not the Ashes, let's have a reality check.

So Michael Jackson has been found not guilty. I hope that he was found not guilty because he was not guilty, and if you have faith in justice you have to believe that this was the case. I don't hold on the saying there's no smoke without fire. That's a load of old bunkum. We can all summise, and all have our own opinions, but we weren't partial to all the evidence.

Oh and Jon Stead decided not to sign for Charlton instead joining the Black Cats at Sunderland. Good luck to the boy, but was he really what we were looking for? There were some worries on the Pink Oboe list that Charlton hadn't done their job in promoting the club to him and making him sign for us. But hey let's move on.

I had to get on one of those slam door trains this morning. It's strange how now there is no room to stand or to sit down. I'm surprised that you can actually get passengers on them. There was a bloke sitting in the middle of a 3 seat, wearing a backpack and tapping away onto his notepad. Unbelievable.

Oh ... and I watched the ECW wrestling I taped off of Sky on Sunday night. I have to say totally awesome stuff, pure old school. If you like tables, chairs, cheese gratters and fire this is the wrestling show for you.

My tune of the day: Runnin - Jon Cutler feat. Pete Simpson -

Is the plaque a tad skew-whiff???

Just a couple of pics I took over the weekend. I actually remembered to take a picture ... well wonders never cease.

On Saturday I ventured over to Brockwell Park down Brixton way to see the likes of Spooney, Danny Rampling and Tony Humphries spin a few platters. I would say that the 15 minutes in the military wear stall was fun.

On Sunday I ventured to the Charlton Centenary street party (held in the car park). It was nice to see a few faces, chat a little bit and finally see the statue. But it goes to show that when push comes to shove it'll be the same Charlton supporters there or there abouts. It was the usual bunch, but fun all the same. I'd like to say thanks to all the independent organisers who actually made this an event. Good on you.

It's been a funny pre-season so far. The usual who are we signing nonsence, but with a slight twist. The Chairman has said that we will be making 3-4 early signings. So everyone is on tenderhooks. Is it Stead? Is it Ambrose? My dads, brothers, sisters, uncles, cousin once removed saw Gary Lineaker down Eltham High Street. And he was talking to Ronaldo!!!!

Another one of those funny goings on is the new Chalton Athletic Supporters Trust. I for one don't know the first thing about a Supporters Trust, but after a quick google search i found the following ...

"Currently in the UK there are 122 Supporters Trusts in existence at every level of the football pyramid working under the aegis of Supporters Direct, a national body that is in partnership with the Football Supporters Federation. Between them the two organisations represent hundreds of thousands of football fans in the UK who are tired of the way football supporters are taken for granted by the people who run the game and want to have their say and to have their voice heard."

Well there you have it. A place for disgruntled fans to voice an opinion to how the Beautiful game is being run. It seems fair to me, but I'm sure there are different agendas all over the place. We live in a weird time for football fans, espacially Charlton ones. In reality we have never had it so good. We are in the Premier league and have been for a few years now. We are buying players for money we could have only dreamed off say ten years ago. We have Internationals playing for us. But the bottom line is are we enjoying it? Would we really like to go back to 85 of us at Grimsby? Well that's a question I can't answer or won't, as it will get me caled all sorts of damned names. Poor old Inspector Sands. He's been castigated to death on the old Pink Oboe list, but hey ho.

The way I see it is that Bill Shankley didn't know what he was chatting about when he said "Its not a matter of life or death it's more important than that ..."

It's a game ... it's entertainment ... move on ...

My tune of the day: Enjoy it Now - Tortured Soul

Vodka, slimline ... it works wonders

I seem to remember drinking shed loads of the stuff last night. It was also Keeleys birthday, which somehow I forgot to mention yesterday, but I may just have been caught up in the emotions of Charlton turning 100. There is a Centenary Party on Sunday with some people carrying a goalpost from the original site past a few landmarks including the Royal Oak to the Valley. I'll have to keep my eye's on the weather ... if the sun shines it may be a good day.

The club unveiled a statue yesterday of one of it's former sons Sam Bartram. Now a few people on the pink oboe list attended and they do make you laugh. One comment was that it doesn't look like him!!! Well it's a 9 foot bronze statue ... what do you actually want?

On a seperate note, I spied a tad too many base clumpy shoes on the train this morning. It seemed there must have been a sale on, as nearly every bloke on the rain was wearing them. Given that I am wearing my pointy whites this morning maybe I was just hiding my inferior complex.

I'm just thinking about doing a spin class this lunch time. However I am feeling a bit sore from the TBC class yesterday. I was the only sole in the class, so the instructor made me work. I was sweating buckets, a bit like a dinner lady ... so maybe I need a rest today?

My tune of the day: Happy Birthday - Frank Sinatra

One hundred years and counting ...

So Charlton reach that milestone that is 100 years. Formed by a gagle of youths down Eastmore Street in Charlton so they could play a bit of footie and bond together. Do you think that in 100 years time they will be celebrating 100 years of Happy Slapping? Or alcopop drinking? No thought not.

It appears that the Sam Bartram statue will be unvelied at 3 this afternoon, so if you are passing the Valley go and have a look.

Now I've just read that Lee Bowyer has been ordered to appear in Court for his on the pitch handbags with Kieron Dyer. Police are acting under the Public Order Act. Now hang on a minute. Did you all see it? It was a bit of pushing and shoving, as I say handbags. Then having watched the TV highlights of the Leiceter v Wasps rugby match at Twickers a month ago I had to sit and watch as Neil Back punched Joe Worsley full in the face, knocking him doolaly. Now that was premeditated violence, but as usual nothing gets mentioned. You can stick that Rugby nonsence where the sun doesn't shine.

Big Brother ... have I missed something here? Apart from Saskias big kahoonas not much fun is it?

My tune of the day: LET ME BE - SKI OAKENFULL feat. AMP FIDDLER

Heavy ...

just back from my mums ... it's was also nice to see Leigh Leigh with her big fat belly ... only 41 days to go gal!!!!

My tune of the day: Magnetism - Eugene Record

Geeks and freaks ...

I watched a bit of that Big Brother last night. Yes Kev, I sat there glued to the screen ... Spellbound. However I do think that the makers/ producers have definitely got it right this year. Just the right amount of freaks, geeks and pure idiots. Girls with big Charles, blokes in stilletos, Tories, rappers (yeeeehaaa) and Essex bloke. I sat there open mouthed as they fought over makeup bags, pasta and water bombs. Oh well, at least it gives me something to do with my evenings.

I had an email from our boy in Brazil. I'm not sure if he got to see the Brazil v Paraguay game but I know he planned to go to Argentina to see their game against Brazil. How jealous?

I've just realised it's the Charlton centenary party this Sunday. One hundred years and counting. Oh well I'll see you all there ... I'll be the one carrying the goalposts ... NOT!!!!

My tune of the day: Superficial People - Ten City

Two days and two nights ...

Have you ever spent time in a caravan? No me neither, that was until Friday night. A leisurly drive to Clacton found me entrenched in an 8 birth. Well I was hoping for some hot weather, so I could lie out on the lawn, but what followed was 2 days of overcast stroke showery weather that meant I lay under my quilt. I did have a good time though. Talking rubbish and stuff. That's me down to a tee.

It's Wandas birthday today, so happy birthday to her. I'm sure she's now older than me ? But hey they all are.

One thing a weekend away does for you is makes you miss all the good sporting events. The Hatton fight, the First Lions game, the cricket. Yea the cricket, I'm sure I didn't miss anything there. Oh well roll on the Ashes.

I think there is a need for me to spend the rest of the week cleaning the flat up. It really is a bit of a tip at the moment. Oh well.

My tune of the day: A change is going to come - Otis Redding

Strange games and tings ...

No question time last night, so I was forced to watch BB6 and Celebate Love Island. Well somebody shut the door when they leave. Ffan and Paul, handbags at dawn and tears, tantrams and tiaras in the BB House. Luckily I will have no TV this weekend.

Somewhere I seem to have missed something with this Ashley Cole tapping up inquiry. We have players at top clubs earning more in a few months than most people do in a decade. Then they want to throw away a contract they have and just move to another club who will be willing to give them more money. Yep, I've missed the boat here. I say sod the lot of them, Ashley Cole, Rio Ferdinand you can all kiss my ass.

I'm still contemplating getting Sky+. But I'm still cheesed that they don't have a fair pricing policy. I've had Sky for years but if I want to upgrade I have to pay £50 more than someone new to the service. It's a loyalty thing again. Oh Sky can kiss my ass as well.

I've just been reading that the number of British men who do their own ironing is at an all time high. So they are going to market Irons as "Power Tools". Well there you have it.

I got an email off of Timbo in Brazil. He says it's a bit overcast. That's a shame.

Right, I need to get myself a better Broadband deal. Does anyone know an deals out there?

My tune of the day: That Friday Pay (Part 1) - Sonny Jenkins & the New York Potpourri Strings

Super Size me up ...

I watched this film this morning. I woke at 6 and thought hell why not. Now it really is hard to get your head round the need to drink a litre and a half of soda, or to have a bucketful of fries. I just hope that I never get like that, you know a craving for sugary things and big kahoonas ...

Why do blokes wear suit jackets with no vents? Why do blokes wear suits then load up a backpack? Why do blokes wear those earphones that go over the top of your head? Why do blokes walk three abreast down a pavement and not move when you are coming the other way?

Hold on! Charlton have only gone and signed someone. Yep, nearly two months before the seasons starts. But hey, then we have Richard Murray saying they don't usually like buying people now as they have to give them wages!!!!! Blimey, you couldn't make it up. Anyway good luck to Darren Bent our newest Ipswich Town player.

Does anyone know the way to Clacton?

We just have a fire evacuation. It's quite scary to see peoples attitude towards these things. People walking up the stairs as everyones coming down, people lighting a cigarette before they are out of the building, people ambling down the stairs, remaining in their offices. I still think that everybody should be forced to watch that Fire Training video that shows the Bradford Fire. That may make a few people sit up.

My tune of the day: Wet my whistle - Midnight Star

No means NO ...

So come on the French have said no, and now it looks like the Dutch are going to do the same. But who really is laughing? It seems that the French voted "Non" because the constitution was too biased towards the English. How funny is this given that most people in England think it's too biased towards the French!!!!

So there we have it. Xenophobia rules the roost throughout the whole of Europe. France doesn't want Turkey in Europe, Germany doesn't want most of the Eastern States in Europe and England doesn't want Europe in Europe. That's the way i see it anyway.

But the only peeps laughing are George Dubya Bush and the growing power that is China. A strong Europe may be able to stand up to Bush and go head to head with Chinas economy. Oh well, let's just leave it at that ... and see where we are in 50 years time.

It was good to see Luke Young pick up his second cap last night. Whether he gets any further chances is in the hands of Sven and his love of the Nevilles. But anyway good on you Luke.

It's Wednesday already. Shouldn't every week be a four day affair?

My tune of the day: That's the difference - Lee Garrett