time

He's been playing (?) a horse's arse for years.

There's also the dedicated Dead Drummers thread

I agree - I could never defend Thatcher per se, but I do believe that whatever she did, she did it in the belief that it was in the best interests of the country (though other viewpoints are available), whereas whatever Johnson does is, I believe, done purely in the best interests of Johnson.

I wasn't aware they'd done a TV adaptation of Pillars..., but I doubt I'd have watched it as I also read the book back in the day, and I'm generally disappointed by any TV adaptation of books I've read as the characterisation is never as I imagine it, (Ken Stott, while I loved in him in The Vice & Messiah (which I recommend), was in my opinion a poor choice to play Rebus). I do often buy books based on having seen a TV programme or film though.

I was disappointed with this (Your Honor -shouldn't it be Yor Honor?), given the recommendation I had; my opinion - good in parts but not good enough overall. Maybe Succession spoiled me. Might be Britannia next; watched the first series, never got around to the second (and now there's a third).

R.I.P.

The Times carries a full proper obituary of Robin Le Mesurier (behind the paywall).

I note that the Health Secretary has said it was an honour to work with him but Van Tam hasn't echoed the sentiment!

The first Ron to do one this year; not only surprised but a bit saddened really.

Herman Rechberger, composer, born Linz, Austria, 1947, Finnish citizen since 1970, died in Greece 2022, aged 74.

Reminds me of Fulham FC's ill-fated appointment of Alan Dicks:

Dick is as culpable as the rest of them; probably toeing the party line waiting for that peerage. (Me cynical? As if...)

Miranda Fryer Reported now in news media

Bob Barker, because I've dropped him from my HPDP, so is a banker for this year.

Here's the full interview with CDC director Rochelle Walensky**, if you'd like the full picture, rather than what Dr. Eli David* is trying to sell, based on one sentence devoid of any context. https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/news/video/cdc-director-responds-criticisms-covid-19-guidance-82131389 *Not a medical doctor. **A medical doctor

Peter Pike Obituary (obviously of no use to anyone for anything, but here it is anyway).

"Mr. Notts County", Colin Slater, BBC Radio commentator, has died aged 87

Bob Falkenburg reported to have died aged 95.

He also compered "America's Funniest Home Videos" which paved the way for "You've Been Framed", which taints the memory somewhat.

Claude Tattinger, of the eponymous champagne brand, died last week aged 94. Took the name from a niche label to internationally known brand, and instigated the Pierre Tattinger International Culinary Prize, named after his father, the founder of the label.

That would be Mr & Mrs Webb.

While I don't recognise the name, the face is instantly recognisable. I'm not sure how convincing the Scottish accent was, however!

John C. Koss, creator of the hi-fi stereo headphone, dead aged 91. Company obit.

I have that book (it was only a fiver, don't judge) but can't recall any scurrilous revelations - maybe I haven't read it!

Shirley Bassey is 85 today