Bob A Sob

 I do not wish to  say that loneliness is not a real problem, a killer, and even in its less pathological states the cause of much mental suffering which any decent human would want to avoid for themselves or others. It was with gratitude, therefore, that we learned HM Gov. (thank u Grauniad again.) is about to pour largess of some £7m plus upon us for the purpose of relieving loneliness. Now, I have to admit this is crude but we have all suffered a little in the loneliness department at one time or another and let's say we all get a cup of this kindness cake to combat loneliness. By my reckoning that gives us 'roughly' 12p each or what we used to call a bob in pre-eu- decimalist days of imperial freedom (and poverty?) Not even enough for a cup of tea!

Hence the slogan Bob a Sob. It could catch on.

The Old Bull and Johnson

 I have in my hand a copy of the Beer Drinker's Companion by Frank Baillie. It was published in 1973 and my copy is dated 1974. It is a comprehensive guide to the beers that were available at the time and, full disclosure, of which I took refreshment. In addition, I own a well used Edinburgh Pub Guide - The Lore o' Reekie's Howffs and Hostelries - Published in 1976 by ' Pubs Board' (nothing to do with drinking I suppose...Ed?) Edinburgh University Students Publication Board since you ask. The Star Tavern ( 63 in the book, now the Star Bar.) was my local when I lived in Edinburgh. Very local I lived about 5 metres verically from the front door. The point is that despite my current  state of sobriety I know that of which I write and so...

 It is with great sadness, therefore, that I have to announce the death of the Pub.

Having survived years of religious persecution, a reletless bombing campaign by the Luftwaffe, the IRA and various rightwing and homophobic individuals the PUB was finally dealt the Coup de Grace by a Mr Boris Johnson, a Prime Mincer, who is described being as fit as an undertaker's dog, possibly.

The PUB RIP 2020