The Falcon or Falcon brook. Another of Londons lost rivers walked today, led as always by Andy. Rising in Streatham Hill, we walked through Tooting, Balham and Clapham. 20k steps or so later ended up at the Thames at Battersea.
Can’t wait to receive my preorder, I read Laura’s last book (the square of sevens) in about two days, couldn’t put it down, so really excited to be immersed in her writing again soon!
Focusing on the Glastonbury music, absolutely beautiful, intricate set from Beth Gibbons, violin by the talented Emma Smith (who also played with Pulp - what a day) and huge admiration for legendary Candida Doyle (Pulp) smashing it on keys despite her rheumatoid arthritis. Loved Tom Odell as always.
Me too, it was so fantastic.
Feeding the soul & raising a glass to my dad on what would have been his birthday weekend, at one of his favourite old places. Blown away by the creative improvisation and drumming genius of Kahil El’Zabar. Fantastic to be at Ronnie Scott’s, one day I’ll be young enough to stay for the late band.
Absolutely awful news. All my thoughts are with the families and friends directly affected by this tragic loss, and with colleagues across the UK Fire service, many of whom issued heartbreaking statements yesterday as news emerged. Just heartbreaking.
Adolescence is as challenging & important a watch as you’ve heard, every actor is phenomenal. The direction and photography (one take episodes) is mind blowing. Then there’s the issues: mobiles, kids, objectification, masculinity. VAWG. A much needed wake up call. www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
Spent yesterday walking another hidden river of London: the Westbourne, rising on Hampstead Heath and and flowing out to the Thames at Chelsea. We did about 18k in ideal walking weather, cold but glorious sunshine. Guided by Andy reading aloud from his book, taking in social history along the route.
Tricky old week but a night out full of laughs (Mo Gilligan comes to Croydon!) with these brilliant women was the tonic I didn’t know I needed. @thatjotanner.bsky.social @todayicooked.bsky.social
International Women’s Day 2025. So much polarisation on the timelines today, people either celebrating or despairing. I’m doing neither, just determined that we keep on going 💜🤍💚
Jim McMahon MP stood at a lecturn on a stage speaking to a room full of people. Behind him is a large digital screen and a long table. Sat at the table are two people.
An aerial view of a large room full of people sat at round tables. They are listening to a panel of four people sat behind a long desk on a stage. Also on stage is a large digital screen that provides the backdrop.
Our keynote speaker on day 1 of the LGA member peer conference was Jim McMahon MP. The Minister emphasised the importance of localism and thanked members for their leadership, whilst highlighting the diversity of England and the need for local champions going forward. #LGAPeers
Absolutely loving this clip, and where can I get a dulcimer from?
So, let's try doing #duvetknowitschristmas here this evening? People are literally Driving Home For Christmas right now, which MIGHT JUST mean that they'll be sleeping somewhere unusual. 1/
You’ve got this Ian! You guys are always brilliant hosts. I have faith that a plan will emerge! 💪
I wish you fine health too Gillian. I haven’t yet completed the to do list but there has been some progress. At some point tomorrow I shall have to accept defeat on a few big ticket items, but this has been a tough week. Every year I promise myself I won’t do this!
Last full working week before Christmas: solidarity to the ambitious optimists and control freaks who still have long to do lists and big plans before the year end, but in reality have peaked too early, over done it, and are dreaming of Christmas Eve. One more heave people, we’ve got this.
'A Historic Wrong': Veterans Kicked Out Of Army For Being Gay To Receive Up To £70,000 Each
www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/a-hist...
It’s not for us to have the shame- it’s for them. Fantastic writing by Jamie Klingler, paying tribute to the incredible Gisele Peliocot.
LGA workforce (well, me and Naomi) singing 9 to 5 at the Christmas party karaoke. I think our work here is done. It’s merry Christmas and happy retirement to the legend that is Claire Holloway. And thanks to the other LGA legend that is @martinangus.bsky.social for the cross party karaoke 🥰
COMPETITION: I’ve got three copies of Planes, Trains and Toilet Doors to give away.
RT this before 10am on Monday.
I’ll randomly pick three people from the RTs, and I’ll sign and post a book to the winners. Perfect 🎁
We’ve got form haven’t we! Welcome to bluesky!
Am left oustounded by Meera Syals performance in a Tupperware of ashes at the Dorfman Theatre tonight. Music, set, the performances- all absolutely incredible. Deeply moving reminder of the power of theatre. Lots of tears. amp.theguardian.com/stage/2024/o...
The exodus from the other place seems to be speeding up.
For any of the many people who have just joined up, here's a list of UK political journalists, commentators, politicos and experts to get yourself going with
go.bsky.app/2CwmVfN
Added lots more people to this now they've joined bluesky (as others join, say hi 👋 and I will add in)
go.bsky.app/Geu9Jd8
