Category Archives: Random stuff

Reflections on retirement

Posted on September 15, 2018 by

Yesterday was my last day at IPSA – the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, which regulates MPs’ expenses and decides their pay and pensions. I was the Director of Policy and Communications there. I’d been there since its creation in early … Continue reading →

Posted in Random stuff | Tagged , , , | 5 Comments

My novel: “The Decision”

Posted on April 28, 2018 by

I’ve written a novel. It’s called “The Decision”. It’s now available for sale – direct from me at the moment. Like to know what it’s about? Here’s a summary; “The Decision” is a novel about politics, the environment, relationships and … Continue reading →

Posted in Art, books, theatre, cinema, Random stuff | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Belfast Part Two: The City in Pictures

Posted on April 16, 2018 by

Part two of my Belfast trilogy. Mainly photos, but putting them together reminded me how much I loved this city. Even though I’d never looked properly around it before, I felt it was part of me. My second city – … Continue reading →

Posted in Photos, Random stuff | Tagged | 8 Comments

Belfast Part One: A Driver’s Story

Posted on April 10, 2018 by

My wife, Kath, and I have just been to Belfast and environs for a few days. It was a brilliant trip. For me, the first proper visit to the the place that my mother is from – I’ve had a … Continue reading →

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Love and Hope (for Manchester)

Posted on May 23, 2017 by

Last night’s atrocity at the Manchester Arena is beyond words, as many, including the singer Ariana Grande in the aftermath, have said. Beyond senseless. Pure evil. I have nothing I can add to that – just my heartfelt best wishes … Continue reading →

Posted in Music - concerts, lists, reflections, Random stuff | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments

In Manchester

Posted on April 2, 2017 by

On 24 and 25 March I spent some time in Manchester, one of England’s great cities, but one I don’t know terribly well, other than for its football and music. I’ve been there quite a few times in the past, … Continue reading →

Posted in Art, books, theatre, cinema, Photos, Random stuff | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

Leaving London – just for one day

Posted on March 24, 2017 by

London, Euston Station, Friday morning 24 March. Waiting for my train to Manchester. From one great city to another. Going to see Car Seat Headrest tonight. I’ve been to Manchester quite often, but only on work trips or stag-dos. I’ve … Continue reading →

Posted in London, Random stuff | Tagged , | 5 Comments