Two pins

Once again the flags are flying for my favourite sport. As autumn leaves begin to fall the game takes on a new piquancy. But the sight of the sea also makes me sad. My own beloved vessel will shortly need to be hauled out for her seasonal winter rub-down. This will temporarily disturb Eunice’s passion for life on the poop deck, but the experts say that stubborn barnacles need vigorous anti-fouling. The question is where to berth her. I have considered using the new free car parking space allocated to me at the front of County Hall, but am loathe to risk the wrath of landlubbers. Unfortunately my vital county council duties have this year prevented me from attending Southampton’s Boat Show. I like to keep up to speed with all the latest marine technology. I think I may need some shiny new rowlocks soon. January beckons for the major national event and I sincerely hope dear old Tom will be able to oblige again with a couple of free tickets. Can non-executive directors do that sort of thing? How we miss him in Bridgwater. And how proud he would be of the transformation I have just approved for the Members Room at County Hall. Those new comfy chairs and the softer colour scheme will help us all in our important task of keeping tabs on the public purse. Economies will be necessary in future when the new Chief Executive arrives. I am glad to see that the search for the right person is being conducted by such an affordable company. And I was pleasantly surprised to discover that my investment in new furniture for Members left change from £11,000. Such is the calibre of our new regime that we strive to get results at any price.