Most Popular Brands of 2008

Over the past 12 months I've facilitated many workshops where brands have been discussed ad infinitum. From memory, these following brands have had the most mentions. So, in no particular order....

1. Apple

It used to be the iPod, now its the iPhone. Usually someone has one and likes to wave it about, provoking jealous looks from those people around them. Occasionally someone says I hate Apple.. and receives pitying looks from everyone else.

2. Nespresso

Quoted more often by women. People admire its innovative route to market, the way it has built partnerships with suppliers and its aspirational brand image. Others just fancy George Clooney.

3. The Nintendo Wii

A brand with broad appeal which provoke many stories of how difficult it was to buy. Amazingly not everyone has played it. However having heard it described to them most people say ' why haven't you brought one to the workshop?' I must remember next time.

4. Bugaboo

A recent entry, this range of expensive baby buggies is usually mentioned by image-conscious young dads who would much rather spend their hard earned cash on a BMW but have been told they can't. They usually claim they choose one because of its 'great functionality'. Now we know this isn't true

5. Abercrombie and Fitch

A popular choice amongst the nubile females, gay men and people from Dublin. The real fans can describe not only the 'must buy' items, but also which stores in New York have the best ranges and the best times to go shopping there.

6. Ocado

A life saver for all the UK based stressed business women. Non-Brits have never heard it, but are usually convinced of its merits after a long description of how nice and helpful the Ocado-man is.

7. Innocent

A brand admired for its 'tone of voice' and the cute woolly hats promotion. In almost every workshop I've been to someone has said 'we must do an Innocent with our brand'. This is usually followed by someone else saying our brand personality needs to be a 'bit more like Jamie'.

A Night Out in Warsaw

A very friendly bunch of clients gave me a tour of Warsaw last night. What I didn't realise was that during the war Warsaw was almost entirely destroyed. Although the centre looks old - and is referred to as the old town - it was completely rebuilt in the style of the original city.

After a walk around the very pretty town centre we went to a traditional Polish restaurant where I sampled a whole range of classic dishes but more importantly drank lots of the local beer and many shots of Polish vodka. I had no idea that the Poles are such big vodka drinkers. I do now. I always find that Polish people are great hosts. They're very open and friendly and made me feel very welcome.

After a long day, I'm now in the Lot Airlines lounge waiting to fly home. Somehow I got put in business class and am looking forward to some relaxation and pampering. As Frank once said..its oh so nice to go travelling, but so much nicer to come home...or words to that effect.

In Warsaw

Arrived a couple of hours ago at the remarkably mild Warsaw airport. Walked a couple of hundred yards across the terminal to the Marriott hotel where I'm staying. Flight on Lot was fairly relaxed, but food wasn't great. Ordered a bowl of Polish soup via roomservice which was delicious and flicked through all the TV channels. All the usual suspects - CNN, BBC World, Eurosport, etc showing endless pictures of Americans voting. Can't find any Adult Channels (not that I'm interested, of course). Probably because its a Catholic country. They're normally free in Dutch hotels. Missed our Italian lesson tonight. Will need to catch up before next week.

Have got a taxi booked at 7.15am tomorrow to take me to the client's office. Think its near the city centre, which would be good. Have never been to Warsaw (although I have been to Poznan before) Hopefully I'll get a chance to look around a bit. Will miss the fireworks tomorrow on Clapham Common which is a bit of a shame.

Have finished my book - Bel Canto - which I continued to enjoy. I always need a period of reflection before I begin a new one. Can't get iPlayer so will probably go to bed now. Need a good night's sleep so I can get into 'the zone' for the training course over the next couple of days.

Decision Time

I can't believe that the day of the US election has finally arrived and that after months of campaigning we'll shortly have a new President.

According to the Polls its a one-horse race. However, If there are any undecided Americans out there, please vote for Obama. The world needs you to do the right thing.

Allotment News

Dug up some Jerusalem artichokes yesterday. Strange looking things aren't they, with an even stranger name. Have never cooked them before and can't remember the last time I've tried them.

According to my sister they're nice when they're roasted, although I've also read a couple of interesting soup recipes. Wonder why they're not more popular?

We Were Robbed, Apparently

Whilst we were walking by the river Derby were playing Nottingham Forest in front of a sell-out partisan crowd at Pride Park. Derby hate Forest in case you didn't know.

According to various text messages I received the ref was useless and denied us a perfectly legitimate goal in the last minute. I guess we could have helped ourselves by not missing a penalty. It ended 1-1.

Anyway, at least it was exciting and will give the folk in Derby something to moan about.

My Favourite Part of the Thames

I love walking by the river between Ham and Richmond, especially this time of year. You've got the meadows, Ham House and of course the fabulous cafe at Petersham Nurseries with their lovely cakes. A nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Halloween

Every year it seems to get more popular to the point where Bonfire Night seems a bit dull in comparison. What's happened to 'penny for the guy?' We used to do this all the time. Shame, really.

First Day of Snow in London

Walked to Tooting Bec tube station on a chilly clear morning. Got out at Arnos Grove in North London to discover several inches of snow on ground. Its a rare occurence in London and even more surprising given it only partially covered the city. According to the Evening Standard it was the first October snow in London for 70 years. Starting to feel Christmassy now.

Thunderstorms, Scottish Dancing and Chinese Girls

Last weekend we held the 9th annual Reunion of the girls from the Long Yan Orphange at Dumfries, birthplace of the great Scottish poet Robert Burns. There were 8 families from all over the UK and in keeping with the location there was an evening of Scottish dancing on Saturday evening after a day of mountain biking in the torrential rain. We even visited a genuine Scottish castle.

Every year its a joy to see the girls growing up and to catch up with the familes. Next October we'll be south of the border. Liverpool? Southport? My vote's for Blackpool.

What I'm Reading

Over the weekend I've spent several hours on long train journeys. Its during these times that you're really grateful to have a good book to pass the time away.

Bel Canto by Ann Patchett is a really enjoyable read. Its the story of a group of wealthy people, including a famous opera singer kidnapped by terrorists in a Latin American country. People fall in love, strange alliances are formed and they learn to survive in unusual circumstances. Ann Patchett also wrote 'The Magician's Assistant' which I also really liked. This is even better, I think.

Thanks very much to the lady in Dublin airport who recommended it to me.

Another Nice Lunch

Thanks to a recommendation from my sister Silvana, I went for lunch today at Hix Oyster and Chop House, located around the corner from Smithfield Market. As the name suggests, oysters and various cuts of meat feature prominently on the menu. The atmosphere was informal with a long marble bar where people could sit and eat, white tiles and dark wooden floors. Lovely food. Nice staff. Definitely worth a visit.

Nice Day For Lunch at the South Bank

Posh Cocktail Party

Last night we went to a reception at the Italian Cultural Institute to celebrate a season of Italian films being shown at the London Film Festival. We were invited by our Italian teacher Tina and it was a very stylish affair. I know its a cliche, but Italians are so well dressed and, of course, are very good looking. The great and the good of the Italian film world were present and it was a lovely way to end the week.

Shock Horror! Derby On a Winning Streak!

Derby have now gone seven games unbeaten and are 1 point off a place in the play-offs. The world of football is so surprised that they've decided to launch an enquiry into a match fixing allegation following Derby's away win at Norwich. Bloody cheek!

Am particularly pleased that Tottenham are doing so badly at the moment. The people who run the club have never struck me as being particularly pleasant and I can't stand the way their fans continue to abuse Sol Campbell. Hopefully they'll go down this year.

I'm Currently Reading

The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid, told through the eyes of a Pakistani Muslim with a high-flying job in New York during the time of the attacks on the World Trade Centre. I've read about 40 pages and I'm really enjoying it. Its very precise, sharp and compelling. The kind of book I'm looking forward to reading again, which will probably be during my flight this afternoon to Hamburg. My friend Clare lent me her copy. Thanks Clare. Good choice.

My Cavolo Nero

The End of the Allotment Year

It was a beautiful Autumn day on the allotment. There's not much left to pick apart from the remaining runner beans, leeks and red cabbage. However, cavolo nero - is looking really good. Need to get out the recipe books - ribolito is all I can think of.

The biggest job is clearing everything away and filling up the compost bins. Luckily my father-in-law Maurice who has moved in recently is able to give me a hand - thank goodness.

We Got Our First Christmas Card Today

Thanks Ronnie, Charlie, Ben, Hannah, Rosie and Josh. Much appreciated. Is it that time of the year already? Maybe they operate on a different Calender in Wirksworth.

Jamie Oliver's Ministry of Food.

I'm really enjoying Jamie Oliver's Ministry of Food. whereby he's trying to get the whole nation to cook again by passing on recipes.

This time he's dealing with issues that are much more deep rooted and complex that any of his previous campaigns and I really admire what he's trying to do.

This is much more than a cookery programme. It exposes some of the key issues facing Britain today.

- our ongoing class system and the north south divide

- poor education, with people who can't read recipes and have never been taught to cook

- family breakdown and the consquences of single parenthood

- the growing gap between rich and poor

- our obesity epidemic and resultant health issues

Jamie represents the middle class, self made, foodies at the heart of Britain's 'food revolution' and I love the way he can't quite get to grips with people who can't/ won't cook for themselves and prefer to spend what little cash they have on fags, booze and takeaways.

There are no quick fixes here, but well done Jamie for raising awareness of the issues and having a good crack at them.

I saw Gordon Ramsay this evening sitting by a swimming pool

This evening I went to pick up Mae from her swimming club at a school in Wandsworth. Gordon Ramsay was there too, talking to his wife. I only noticed him because Mae asked him to move so she could get her bag.

'Can I get my bag please' she says, ', 'oh, sorry' says the man. Blimey, that's Gordon Ramsay I thought.

I guess one of his children goes to the same swimming club.

Dublin Airport in The Rain

I often buy books at Dublin airport. I don't know why. It's just a habit I've acquired and there really isn't much to do there. A woman was browsing next to me. I recommended the Wind Up Bird Chronicles by Haruki Murakami to her and she recommended Bel Canto by Ann Pratchett to me. We both bought them. Must talk to strangers more often.

From Paris to Dublin

Spent most of last week travelling. Had a fabulous dinner last Tuesday in Paris (foie gras, cote de boeuf) followed by a workshop, then a day in Dublin on Friday reporting back on some market research findings. (haddock and chips for lunch, by the way)

Was very impressed by the Paris bike rental scheme, whereby you can pick up a bike at the metro station and deposit it at any other parking station in the city. According to the Parisians I've spoken to, its been a massive success.

Would love to see a scheme like this in London. Am sure it would be a big hit. Come on Boris, time to make your mark.

Is Jamie Oliver the most influential man in the UK?

Saw Jamie Oliver on the Jonathan Ross on Friday launching his latest campaign to get the nation cooking again.

We're all aware of the country's obesity problems - we're the 3rd most obese country in the world and we're always being told what to do about it.

However, despite all the government's efforts I'm convinced Jamie will have a much bigger impact. People like him. People listen to him.

Is he the most influential person in the UK? Probably.

Its 0-0 and QPR start the second half convinced that they can retain their 100% home record against a Derby team that has not won away from home for 2 years.

Emmanual Villa has just put Derby 2-0 ahead. It's the 90th minute and Derby have just completed a thoroughly deserved victory. The fans go wild! We are Derby, We Are Derby, Super Rams, We Are Derby....

Cycling in London

On Sunday we all took part in the London Freewheel Event, where along with 45 000 other cyclists we cycled along a traffic-free 12km route in central London.

The weather was perfect and it was a fantastic day out. Fresh air, sunshine, exercise - what more could you want?

London is a brilliant for communal events and there seems to be so much on at the moment. We've recently had the Thames Festival and the Open House Weekend. Watch out for the Big Draw events which will take place throughout October. They should be fantastic.

My Latest Self Development Book

I'm always on the lookout for books that help you re-think your life. This particular book was recommended to me by a friend so I decided to give it a go. As with most of these books, particularly written by Americans, you have to cut through the author's massive ego trip - 'I'm such a cool dude - makes you jealous, huh', and the 'kick ass, haul ass, way to go!' language.

Having said all that, I did enjoy it and found it very helpful. The basic messages of eliminating excess baggage in your life, automating and outsourcing the mundane and liberating yourself to focus on experiences are very sound and insightful. He's also very generous with his suggestions of additional websites/ authors to look up.

You won't want to read all of it as there is a lot of padding. However, I'd still recommend it as I'm sure most people would find some useful, practical advice within it. You might want to visit his website too.

From Amsterdam to Dublin

I've not had time to blog anything this week. From Monday to Wednesday I was in Amsterdam, or more specifically the Holiday Inn outside Amsterdam. I've still not been around the city centre, despite visiting Amsterdam several times this year. Is it because I'm really too busy? Have I become bored with travel? Think the real reason is because I'm not a great solo tourist. What's the point of seeing something amazing without saying 'wow, isn't that amazing' to whoever you're with. Must get over this. Think I'm missing out.

Thursday to Friday - after a quick pit stop in London - I was Dublin. I spent most of my time going grocery shopping with Irish women. This was bone fide market research, nothing weird, honest. They were very chatty and I learnt loads. Really enjoyed it. Must do more.

Oh Happy Day!

Derby have finally, finally, finally won a League game by beating Sheffield United 2-1 on Saturday after 36 games and almost a year without a win.

Played well too, apparently. So of course, now we've got a win under our belts we're going to start moving up the table rapidly and are dead certs for a play-off place at least. Crisis? What crisis?

Ian Fleming's Thunderball

Having read and enjoyed the Sebastian Faulkes version of a James Bond novel - Devil May Care, I decided to read an 'original' novel by Ian Fleming. Am in the middle of Thunderball and am really enjoying it. Written in 1961, it's a great period piece. What strikes me in particular is:

- the amount of smoking that takes place, how glamorous it all seems

- how women are portrayed. They're objects of desire. They talk too much, are terrible drivers and only interested in money

- how everyone drinks hard spirits especially whisky and cocktails. No-one's had a pint of beer yet

I want to see the film now. Must have a video of it somewhere.

The Growth of the Cornish Pasty

In recent times I've noticed that there are more and more Cornish Pasty shops in central London. Virtually every train station seems to have a West Cornwall Pasty kiosk - the one with the black and yellow awning. I also saw a place called the Pasty Shop at Victoria station last week.

Why are they becoming so popular? I thought we were all becoming more health conscious nowadays.

Latest 10K Run

On Sunday, I ran the Clapham 10K. Finished near the back, didn't break the 1 hour barrier, but still enjoyed it. Luckily the rain held off and it was good to run with the neighbours from our street - the Pretoria Panthers.

Looking out for a race in October - the Dulwich Park 10k on 5th Oct looks promising. Might do this.

Natural Confectionery Company Campaign

I really like this new ad campaign from the Natural Confectionery Company. Charming, quirky, with a strong product message. They could easily have gone down a worthy, good citizen direction but chose not to - which is great. Nice sweets too.

Well done Cadbury's. With the recent Dairy Milk (yes - the Gorilla again) and Trident (Mess with your Head) Campaign they've made some brave decisions on the choice of their creative work.

What's The Best Marketing Job in the World?

Brand Manager of Puma. You've got Usain Bolt as your brand ambassador - undoubtedly the coolest guy on the planet. You also get to go to parties like this.

Dancing Man Videos

I read recently that the videos of Matt the Dancing Man are the most popular on the Web with over 10 million hits on You Tube. He's made 3 videos. For the latest one, click here.

Derby Are Bottom of the Championship

We've gone 36 consecutive League games without a win. This must be some kind of record. I remember when Arsenal went 36 games undefeated to win the Premiership title. I think not winning for 36 games in a row is even harder to achieve.

How Can London Top This?

I loved the Beijing Olympics. The performances were incredible, the ceremonies were spectacular, The Bird's Nest was stunning. So how can London follow this? We can never attempt to emulate this type of event, but instead we need to play to our strengths. Here's some suggestions.

1. Focus on the Individual Not the Collective

During the ceremonies we should focus on individual creative flair rather than the mass co-ordination that the Chinese are so good at, showcasing our global stars of music, theatre, etc.

There should be much less of a corporate feel and there should be the opportunity for different communities to come to the fore.

2. Showcase the Whole of London

Ensure that the world sees all of London rather than just the Olympic Park. It's great that other fabulous settings such as Lord's, Wimbledon, Regent's Park and Wembley will feature in the Games. I remember seeing a lot of Barcelona during their games. We should show off the beauty of London.

3. Create a Party Atmosphere

When Germany held the World Cup, they set up big screens in public places. We should do the same and encourage communal viewing of the big events. There should be a real sense of celebration everywhere with street parties and free public events. We should make the Olympics feel light hearted, entertaining and slightly eccentric. Boris set the tone with his 'ping pong's coming home' speech. More of the same please.

4. Involve The Fans More

In Beijing not all the stadia were full for various reasons. We should ensure that true fans get a chance to go to the events so the crowds can create an intense, passionate atmosphere everywhere.

5. Ignore the Cynics

We're brilliant at negativity in the UK, constantly predicting disaster and moaning about how crowded London will be, how we'll mess everything up, etc. The organisers must ignore and ride through all this and not let the cynicism drive us down.

6. Focus on the Legacy

After the Games we should ensure that everyone has an opportunity to use the facilities and that they don't become empty testimonies to extravagance. We should involve, children and schools before and during the Games so they develop a love of sport and get a chance to develop their talents.

I'm SO looking forward to London 2012. It's a privilege to be given the opportunity to host them and I think they're going to be amazing.

New Addition to the Franco Household

Talullah Lollipop Starfish. 9 weeks old. From Streatham Hill Vet.

Great Film

Recently saw The Lives of Others. It's a German film that re-enacts life in East Germany in the mid 1980s under the watchful eye of the secret police known as the Stasi.

It has everything. Outstanding acting, a gripping story, great soundtrack. No wonder it won the Oscar for Best Foreign Film. A few of us watched it and we all loved it. Can't recommend it highly enough.

Weekend in Glandore

For the past 9 years we've spent the Bank Holiday weekend staying with friends in Glandore in West Cork. Weather was a bit iffy, but it was still great to be there. I always take a picture of Mae sitting at Hayes' Bar. Here's the latest.

Jakarta

Have just arrived in Jakarta. My home for the next 3 days. Flew on an Airbus A380, the biggest passenger plane in the world, in business class with Singapore Airlines. So much space. Was the most luxurious flight I've ever been on. Saw Kung Fu Panda and Ironman. Both very entertaining. Kung Fu Panda slightly more violent.

Nice hotel - the Kristal - with a very inviting pool. Shame I've got work to do.

Same Old, Same Old

Two home games for Derby, two 1-0 defeats. The margins aren't as big, but the results are the same. We've not won a league game for almost a year. Will we be relgation candidates? Looking likely at the moment.

Olympic Withdrawal Symptoms

I can't believe its over. What am I going to do now? I've loved the Olympics. Thought the Games were amazing. BBC coverage was superb. The Chinese put on an incredible show. The athletes were outstanding. Feel inspired and uplifted. Can't wait for London 2012.

Back From Hols

Getting back into work from 2 weeks in the sun is really tough as:

1. The weather's awful
2. The Olympics are on the telly
3. I'd much rather be on a beach in Italy

Whilst away, I managed to get through 3 good books

John Dickie's Delizia: if you love food and you love Italian history, then you'll love this
Sebastian Faulkes' James Bond novel: glamorous, escapist nonsense
Russel Brand's Booky Wook: frank, honest and funny. I'm not a fan of his but I realluy enjoyed it.

Am loving the Olympics - particularly Usain Bolt jogging through his 200 metre heats and the British cyclists. Very distracting. Must get back to my work.....

Can On You Rams!

Can you believe it, the new footie season is about to begin. Over the Summer Derby have bought 11 new players - a brand new team - in an attempt to return to the misery of the Premier League.

So..will need to learn lots of new names and try to work out who's been sold. Trickiest name - Przemyslaw Kazmierczak - Polish midfielder. As with all footie fans, I'm feeling optimistic. Hopefully Paul Jewell will be able to record his first ever win as Derby manager in our opener against Doncaster.

He's bought the players so there can be no excuses. My prediction: Derby in a play off position by Christmas or else Jewell will be gone. Let's hope it's the former.

First London game: QPR on 27th Sept. Anyone want to go??

I Love This Ad...

for Drench Water featuring Brains from Thunderbirds. Ticks all the boxes. Clear product message, funny, clever and....with celebrity endorsement.

Dove Advertising

Whenever I show Dove advertising in classes there's always lively discussion. A year or so ago most peple loved this viral ad called evolution which became an award winning Youtube sensation.

In more recent times Dove has produced this follow up called Onslaught. Opinion on this is much more divided. Is the brand becoming too strident? As a key player in the beauty industry Is it able to take such a stance?

Dove also sells skin tanning products. Is this really about honest, natural beauty? Dove is in a difficult position. It's gained huge admiration for its Campaign For Real Beauty. However it is still in the business of selling beauty products. A fine line to tread.

Offensive Advert?

This recent Oasis Cactus Kid ad is currently under investigation by the ASA following complaints that it normalises / glamourises teenage pregnancy and discourages people from drinking water. Do you agree? Should it be banned?

Emotional Rollercoaster

For the past 3 days I've been running a marketing training course with 20 people looking at the world of chocolate. These are very intense experiences. You're usually staying at a hotel / conference centre. You're with the same people all the time and get fully immersed in their problems and issues. As a trainer you have to stay 100% focused and maintain high levels of energy throughout - even if you're feeling exhausted. I hate to think how much coffee I've drunk or how much chocolate I've eaten this week.

At the end of the session you feel a huge sense of relief that its all over, happiness if its all gone well and sadness as you say goodbye to all the people you've got to know so well over the past few days. Then a combination of exhaustion and depression takes over as you try to re-enter the normal world and get back into a daily routine.

It really is an emotional rollercoaster and when the next session comes along It'll start all over again. Still, managed to return home with some chocs and sweeties. That'll make me popular.

Nice Restaurant

Went for lunch at a really nice restaurant called Dalchini on Friday. Just by Wimbledon Park tube. Chinese food, with an Indian twist. Affordable and very tasty. Recommended.

Summer Reading

I'm off on a holiday in a couple of weeks time and I want to take some stuff to read whilst I'm sitting by the pool or listening to crickets at night. Not too trashy, but not too heavy. Could be new or an old classic. Am a bit stuck. Any recommendations?

Fabulous Film

Saw 'Son of Rambow' on the flight to Bombay and really, really enjoyed it. It's about 2 boys who are making a home-made movie, based on the Rambo films. Set in the early 1980s it captures the feel of the era and the two main actors are so good - as are all the child actors. Highly recommended.

Back From Bombay

Just back from 5 days in Bombay. Being the monsoon season it was hot, sweaty and overcast most of the time and a bit of a shock to the system. The last time I'd been to Bombay was maybe 15 years ago, on holiday. Some things hadn't changed. It was as crowded and chaotic as ever. The traffic was still dreadful and the drivers as still the worst I've ever experienced. They think they're in a video game.

However, it does feel like a city on the move. There are certainly far few beggars on the street, there are lots of roads being built and quite a few brand new air-conditioned shopping malls with the usual international labels.

Highlight for me was the fabulous food, although I did stick to cornflakes for breakfast. As a visitor there's not an awful lot to see in Bombay, so it's the not the kind worth making a special trip to. Even the Gateway of India was covered in scaffolding.

Nice to be back home again. I like going to India but it is very full on. Makes London feel like a haven of tranquility. Am suffering from information deprivation as I had no internet access and am looking forward to some plain English food. Mmm...beans on toast.

The Asics British 10K Run

Yesterday, along with 25 000 other people I took part in the British 10K run around central London. It was a sort of mini version of the London Marathon with the famous landmarks, cheering crowds, and stirring music to keep you going.

I've not been running for the past couple of weeks due to mad work pressures so I wasn't really ready for it. Managed to finish OK, but didn't feel great and my time was rubbish. Still, a nice day out with family and friends and great to back running again.

Thanks, Big Al's

Today was the Ravenstone School Summer Fair and I was helping to man the barbecue. Fortunately the rain stayed off and profits to the school were boosted by the donation of free Big Al's burgers from my friends at Kepak Convenience Foods. They were very popular, which was not surprising as they are Ireland's number one brand.

Thanks again. Much appreciated

Is there any good news out there?

M & S share price plummets, Starbucks closes 500 outlets in the USA, oil price hits $146 a barrel, mortgage approvals down by 28%. All within a week. Was walking around Kingston town centre today and noticed that the furniture retailer New Heights has closed down. Also there was a 50% off sale at John Lewis.

So is anybody thriving at the moment? Apparently luxury brands are doing OK. Fashion sales at Harrods are up by 30% and Harvey Nicks is in pretty good shape. Equally discounters are continuing to grow. Like the Germans, we're discovering the joy of Aldi and Lidl. Key message for me. You either have to offer exceptional quality or exceptional value to survive nowadays.

Apparently alcohol sales remain buoyant. The best way to deal with the recession? You've guessed it..head for the pub.

In Windsor

Am staying in a hotel right opposite Windsor Castle. I wonder if the Queen's in. There's some lights on. Bet she's watching the tennis.

Valerie Singleton, Sex Goddess

What was most shocking about her recent revelation was not the disclosure of her affair with fellow presenter Peter Purves, but her denial of ever having lived with Joan Armatrading. I first heard this about 30 years ago and was convinced it was true, as did all my friends. How disappointing.

No More Amy...Please!

Amy Winehouse's performance at Glastonbury was appalling. She was clearly out of it and couldn't remember or be bothered to sing. I felt sorry for her band and backing singers who attempted to retain their professionalism whilst the star of the show was falling apart. She's said she wants to headline next year. Please don't let her!

In contrast I thought Jay Z was stunning. The opening was brilliant and he followed it up with a flawless, crowd pleasing performance. It would have been nice to see Beyonce do a turn, but it didn't detract from the power of the show. What was all the fuss about?

Have caught bits of Glastonbury all over the weekend. Really pleased that Elbow went down well. I really like them and have been surprised they've not been more popular.

Also enjoyed the Ting Tings who are now set to be the sound of the Summer. Karen saw them and said they were brilliant. Having one of their tracks featured in an iPod ad will guarantee them global fame. It's these stories of obscurity to superstardom that make people want to form bands.

Good luck to them.

I've Given Up on 'The Gathering'

I bought this Anne Enright book at Dublin airport largely on the strength of its Booker Prize. I've read about 100 pages and have decided to stop - which is something I rarely do. Its so dull and pretentious. Can't believe it won the Booker Prize. There must have been 100s of novels written that were much better. Not recommended.

Karen's at Glastonbury

....and I'm looking after the kids for the weekend. About a week ago, I got an email from Glastonbury saying that tickets are still available. I found this really surprising. Usually tickets sell out immediately.

Why is this the case? Has Glastonbury become old / middle class? Are there too many festivals? Is it too expensive? Aren't the acts very popular this year? Is it the weather?

Will watch it on telly instead and see if I can spot her in the crowd. Apparently it's raining at the moment. Surprise, surprise

Oh No, The Gorilla Ad Won!

At the Cannes International Advertising Film festival, the Infamous Cadbury Gorilla ad won the top award. In Adland, this is like winning the Oscars. Still don't like it, still don't think it will have a long term impact on sales...but what do I know. The industry loves it and everyone talks about it so it must be doing something right.

My mate Michael Sheehan is a huge fan. We argue about it all the time. He'll be delighted.

New Clough Movie

Over the past week have been too busy to blog. Heavy work schedules, plus a weekend in Italy - which was very nice, thank you - have kept me away.

Since then, Italy are deservedly out of Euro 2008, Wimbledon is taking place and the new footie season is round the corner. Doesn't time fly.

Anyway, thing that caught my eye was the preview of the New Clough Movie which looks very exciting. Is based on the fab book The Damned United and features the fab actor Michael Sheen as Old Big 'Ead himself. Is out next year. Can't wait.

The Tram Shed Tooting

It's hard to find a nice pub in Tooting, but this place is really good. Recently renovated by the same people who restored the Balham Bowls Club, it has a huge industrial style interior, with lots of second hand furniture and kooky features.

It's right opposite the KFC on Micham High Road, near Tooting Broadway. Not a great location but a great place for a drink.

Community Spirit

It's often said that one of the downsides of living in London is the lack of community spirit. Well, in our neighbourhood the Furzedown Festival takes place, which this year is from 21st June to 6th July. Am particularly looking forward to the comedy night.

The Apprentice Final

Have not been following the Apprentice closely, but have managed to catch the last couple of episodes and think that the most solid candidate won.

Most of the candidates weren't particularly strong, but what struck me overall was how badly the women presented themselves and how the blokes were fundamentally decent. Think Adrian Chiles was a really good host. I remember him from Radio 5 Live. He's destined for great things.

So Pleased England Did Not Qualify

On the radio today a flag manufacturer was moaning about the fact that sales of the English flag were disappointingly low due to England's failure to qualify for Euro 2008. Apparently it will cost the British Economy £2 billion. Can't be helping Gordon's plight.

However, I'm delighted we didn't get through. No more false optimism, jingoism, big screens, penalty shoot-outs, stress, failure, crying footballers, depression and sackings.

Let the other countries feel the pain for once. Let's just sit back and enjoy the footie. Or...we could find something more interesting to do instead.

Great Article

Loved this article in Saturday's Guardian. Was written by Haruki Murakami, one of my favourite writers about why he runs. I had no idea that he was such an enthusiastic runner. I loved the quote 'pain is inevitable, suffering is optional'. Sooo true.

On average, I try and go for a run every other day. No matter how often I run or how much I improve, its always painful. However, if I don't run for a few days, my physical and mental well being begins to deteriorate, so I guess I've got to keep it up...no matter how painful.

Saturday Afternoon. View of The Allotment

Friday Night. View From the Terrace of the Design Museum

Following The Rain

Yesterday it rained all day in London, but the sun shone today. Today I've been in Dublin and its been rainy and miserable all day. Sod's law.

New Season, New Derby County

So far this Summer Derby have signed 6 new players with more on the way. It looks like there will be a completely different team on show when the new season starts in August. None of them are household names, but at least they'll bring fresh energy to the club after our disastrous season.

So...as always with Derby we live in hope. Straight back into the Premier League? No problem.

Great Place For Coffee and Cakes

Last week we cycled to Petersham Nurseries, a very posh garden centre just by the river near Richmond with a fab cafe serving amazing cakes. It's also home to a restaurant, where the head chef is Skye Gyngell. The menu looked great, but was very expensive, especially as it's only open for lunch. However, given the wealthy neighbourhood, I'm sure it's very popular.

I reckon you should stick to the cafe. I can certainly recommend the lemon poppyseed cake.