I forgot to mention an embarrassing episode that occurred last Monday.

I had an important meeting at the Town Hall for which I toddled off on the Docklands. Many of the stations are 'in the air' as it were and involve lots of steps. I could see the Town Hall clearly from Blackwall but couldn't quite work out how to penetrate the wall surrounding the place. I caught up with the man in front, who resembled a porter, in the hope he could help me out. We had a lovely little chat as he led me through a gateway I probably would never have found on my own.

He went his way and I went mine. At least I tried to but there was a man blocking the rotating doors. I was just about to proffer an 'excuse me' when he moved. So I moved. He stopped. I slapped straight into the back of him. In amongst the side-stepping and apologies that ensued I thought I recognised the guy and decided I must know him from the education department or something. I issued forth a cheery “hello”. As he replied, complimenting me on my “fine hair” it dawned on me I'd made a terrible mistake. I didn't know him at all.

It was George Galloway!!