tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23956900252156605032024-03-16T21:24:23.870+00:00The GramblerA charitable experiment in football betting which is bound to go horribly wrong.The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.comBlogger501125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-77705460893591589802024-03-16T21:22:00.003+00:002024-03-16T21:23:34.477+00:00Post 501 - A non-animated gramble<p> </p><p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8"></span><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see. </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Whatever happened to the live action remakes of old cartoons? They seem to have disappeared of late. There was a time when they were the staple product of the Hollywood studios.
Who can forget Casper, The Flintstones, Scooby Doo, Popeye, Inspector Gadget, George of the Jungle, et al? I know I can.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was a particularly popular way to make a film without putting too much thought into it back in the 1990s. Strangely, it's a genre that has, apparently, disappeared, unless
you count all these nonsensical super hero type films that proliferate these days. They are based more on comics (or graphic novels as anyone who reads such childish matter would call them).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps Peter Rabbit and Paddington fall into that category as well, except they weren't graphic novels; they actually featured some words.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">When did this lifting of cartoons and making live action films begin and why am I wittering on about them?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I'll answer the second part, later but the first part? I would suggest that the first was the 1932 film based on the Little Orphan Annie newspaper strip cartoon; itself beginning
in the New York Times on 1924. It even spawned a musical which was made into a film back in 1982.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">After that, it seemed that superheroes were what young cinemagoers wanted. Who can forget the Saturday morning kids' cinema superstar, Flash Gordon character which kept children
glued to their seats (although that might have been chewing gum) long after their release dates of 1936 to 1940? Gordon, he of the flashness, first appeared in comic form in 1934. The character also got a revival when a film
was made in 1980. You probably know the two most famous words in that film spoken, or should that be shouted, by Brian Blessed, 'GORDON'S ALIVE!'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Of the most popular superhero characters you would have expected Batman or Superman to be next to feature on film, but they didn't appear until 1943 and 1948 respectively. And
they have been made ever since. No the next biggie on live action film was none other than Captain Marvel in 1941, a character that was only revived as recently as 2019.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Of course, all of the characters thus far mentioned provided pure escapist fun and it has been cited that the reason for their success was down to the USA's need for that escapism
back then. It was, after all, a period when the world first went through what was known as the Great Depression followed swiftly by the worst war the world had yet seen. Who could blame them for wanting a bit of out and out
nonsense to entertain them?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Back to the world of syndicated comic strips, the next of the comedy type was one called Li'l Abner ( I'm not sure why there is an apostrophe placed where it is) which was
released in 1940. A musical version was released in 1959. I'm guessing it was a rather popular character, but probably only in the USA because Abner was a simple-minded, gullible country bumpkin from the deep syuth (trans:
south). The comic strip ran from 1934 right through to 1977.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Any road up, why am I telling you all of this? Well, there is another comic-strip-based film series that is due for a reboot, in my opinion. After all, many of the characters already
mentioned have been made into films in the more modern era. So why not Blondie? Who, I hear you ask. Blondie, the 1930 comic strip character after whom the 1970s beat combo fronted by Debbie Harry took its name. It is a cartoon
series which is still running 94 years on and formed the basis of 28 films produced from 1938 to 1950. It is undeniably popular so why has no film mogul thought to produce any new movie in 74 years?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Maybe now is the time. I was watching a footy match between Manchester City and Liverpool. [Hang on; that's a bit of a leap from film to football. - Ed.] It is indeed, but bear
with me on this. It struck me when I watched a certain Belgian player leaving the field that, should he ever wish to pursue a career in show business, he would make a prefect candidate to play Blondie's husband, Dagwood
Bumstead. See if you agree...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSgJFu3QTjooQcISWVDxpeqxUqfSKNcOekacYzx6b9-j5VvjAfZFBh9HV4UuAuSDa4JEX83Rjj2ZEU_Z0t1XTgPO818mBaZJ6is1rG2HqXzSuDJO_tJ9KMkBQy3GL6VL1vMDk3CfBco17gw4SiHf72ljjqEpGAA_IyXlD5blQ9dNzijqxeAsVAIeR-OD4/s680/dagwood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="680" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSgJFu3QTjooQcISWVDxpeqxUqfSKNcOekacYzx6b9-j5VvjAfZFBh9HV4UuAuSDa4JEX83Rjj2ZEU_Z0t1XTgPO818mBaZJ6is1rG2HqXzSuDJO_tJ9KMkBQy3GL6VL1vMDk3CfBco17gw4SiHf72ljjqEpGAA_IyXlD5blQ9dNzijqxeAsVAIeR-OD4/s320/dagwood.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm12 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kevin De Bruyne</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm12 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRo9Z7lPuo_aLbKa0SnTYGBj4WX741FGg7HYXZnqY3ogR4i9aB8PMw-8qzCkAw17tTyS5JvgMoVIS50UCxdS_2na7ov7ay7J3oBV_-P717Hx-tvhMtqzqcfeZhyphenhyphenrud-DWz_z7RH3Gq5Ghn2UAtLHtmtY6WAQvANrYrWj5bdfaQxa9Apj8RgnmV86G4UM/s360/kevin%20de%20bruyne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRo9Z7lPuo_aLbKa0SnTYGBj4WX741FGg7HYXZnqY3ogR4i9aB8PMw-8qzCkAw17tTyS5JvgMoVIS50UCxdS_2na7ov7ay7J3oBV_-P717Hx-tvhMtqzqcfeZhyphenhyphenrud-DWz_z7RH3Gq5Ghn2UAtLHtmtY6WAQvANrYrWj5bdfaQxa9Apj8RgnmV86G4UM/s320/kevin%20de%20bruyne.jpg" width="279" /></a> </span></span></div><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dagwood Bumstead</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 9th of March? Of course there were. Here are some that even I have
heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ernest Bevin 1884 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Vita Sackville-West 1892 - Writer and gardener(?)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Eric Woodburn 1894 - Actor. Dr. Snoddie in </span><em><span class="tm8">Doctor Findlay’s Casebook</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Colin Thackeray 1930 - Entertainer. At 89, he was the oldest winner of </span><em><span class="tm8">Britain’s Got Talent</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian Redman 1937 - Racing car drivey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Howard Davies 1939 - Child actor and later TV director and producer. Oliver Twist in </span><em><span class="tm8">Oliver Twist</span></em><span class="tm9"> (1948).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Cale 1942 - Musician. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50X3_OpXZWg">Night Crawling.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Robin Trower 1945 - Musician. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tLsFsGxLmE">Bridge of Sighs.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alexandra Bastedo 1946 - Actress. Sharon Macready in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Champions</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jim Cregan 1946 - Musician. He features on this, </span><span class="tm9"> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAoaVU3-ve0">Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me).</a> Jim’s the one in the bunnet.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Thompson 1948 - Musician. He took care of lead vocals on this, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcWVL4B-4pI">Blinded by the Light.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Neil Hamilton 1949 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bill Beaumont 1952 - Rugby bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Martin Fry 1958 - Musician. Have another clip. Here he fronts ABC on </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhAgQMqVxiE">Be Near Me.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Robert Buchanan 1961 - Actor. Ronnie in </span><em><span class="tm8">That Sinking Feeling</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gary Holt 1973 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Katherine Parkinson 1978 - Actress. Jen Barber in </span><em><span class="tm8">The IT Crowd</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stacey Dooley 1987 - TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now then, what about the 16th of March?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Clive Morton 1904 - Jobbing actor. Commander Rogue in </span><em><span class="tm8">Rogue’s Rock</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Henny Youngman 1906 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Campbell Singer 1909 - Actor. Henry Burroughs in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Newcomers</span></em><span class="tm9">. 142 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Norman Wooland 1910 - Actor. Simon Maxie in </span><em><span class="tm8">Cover Her Face</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Eric McKellar-Watt 1920 - Sausage maker.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Addison 1920 - Composer. He wrote this rousing film score for </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_Fg22R6gL0">Reach For The Sky.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Victor Maddern 1928 - Jobbing actor. One of those faces that cropped up a lot in 60s and 70s TV shows and films. He appeared as Ernie in 39 episodes of </span><em><span class="tm8">The Dick Emery Show</span></em><span class="tm9">. 185 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlgSEwezSOv2yvmmtqWgLlNOB7OK4_KGqFcSG9Uv1Iy0VyYDOKEydfv53__D9Okd5VfHeQysTwBLPAik1ld9ee3WE8BWdYl4eiJScN2tb-S_VMP04bWBlUYjS4srC5eG2dgduJ3rFE8iVkpeJyJVNpjzA81i1h1JLG-WcrEku-iisYgeFFp-qEAO4rpJk/s476/victor-maddern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="476" data-original-width="355" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlgSEwezSOv2yvmmtqWgLlNOB7OK4_KGqFcSG9Uv1Iy0VyYDOKEydfv53__D9Okd5VfHeQysTwBLPAik1ld9ee3WE8BWdYl4eiJScN2tb-S_VMP04bWBlUYjS4srC5eG2dgduJ3rFE8iVkpeJyJVNpjzA81i1h1JLG-WcrEku-iisYgeFFp-qEAO4rpJk/s320/victor-maddern.jpg" width="239" /></a></span></span></div><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Victor Maddern - He of the ‘lived-in’ face.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Leeson 1943 - Actor. You may not know his face but, if you were a fan of </span><em><span class="tm8">Doctor Who</span></em><span class="tm9">, you would recognise his voice as that of K9.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Peter Cleall 1944 - Actor. Eric Duffy in </span><em><span class="tm8">Please Sir!</span></em><span class="tm9"> and its spin-off series </span><em><span class="tm8">The Fenn Street Gang</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Graham Cole 1952 - Actor. P.C. Stamp in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Bill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Cliff Lazarenko 1952 - Darty bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jimmy Nail 1954 - Actor, singer. Oz Osbourne in </span><em><span class="tm8">Auf Wiedersehen, Pet</span></em><span class="tm9">. He also had a couple of hits. Here’s one he had with Mark Knopfler, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_519h95XFs">Big River.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Trevor Harrison 1957 - Actor. Eddie Grundy in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Archers</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Matthew Bannister 1957 - Broadcaster.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Denise Black 1958 - Actress. Hazel Tyler in </span><em><span class="tm8">Queer as Folk</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jennie Eclair 1960 - Comedienne.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jerome Flynn 1963 - Actor and sometime singer. Bronn in </span><em><span class="tm8">Game of Thrones</span></em><span class="tm9">. Here’s a toon he recorded with Robson Green, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkim-WGXumk">White Cliffs of Dover.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark Carney 1965 - Money man.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andy ‘The Hammer’ Hamilton 1967 - Another darty bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andy Dunlop 1972 - Musician. Guitarist with Travis. A clip? Indeed. Here’s the band’s biggest hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYO1-gGWJyo">Sing.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Theo Walcott 1989 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ivan Toney 1996 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dominic Calvert-Lewin 1997 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Gramblin Fry,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">We did enjoy your band ABC and it was so nice to hear a track by them. Perhaps you could help us by telling us what your first top 20 hit was.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours alphabetically,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIDIFXALlOc">T. S. Arnott, E. Nuff.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Bordalkes fare? We won... We really did... Really... Nae kidding. How much, I hear you asking. The grand sum of £3.12 back from our £2.20
stake. Woo hoo! What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Huddersfield vs Leeds - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Huddersfield 1 Leeds 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Patrick Bamford salvaged a point for Leeds United in a feisty West Yorkshire derby against 10-man Huddersfield Town.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Bamford slid in the equaliser midway through the second half as persistent Leeds pressure finally broke stubborn Town resistance.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Leeds’ Crysencio Summerville hit the post in the closing stages.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16">The Terriers scored in first-half injury time when Michal Helik knocked the ball home on the rebound from close range. However, a deserved red card for captain Jonathan Hogg for
a second yellow card left Town playing the entire second period a man down - and they were unable to hold firm</span>.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Birmingham vs Southampton - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Birmingham 3 Southampton 4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Wow!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Southampton had to twice come from behind before beating 10-man Birmingham City with a winner six minutes into added time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Birmingham led through Koji Miyoshi before Adam Armstrong cancelled it out, only for Jay Stansfield to restore the hosts' lead.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Inside the space of seven second-half minutes, David Brooks, architect of the visitors' first goal, then scored the second equaliser. Che Adams put Southampton in front for
the first time - and home defender Dion Sanderson was sent off for a challenge on Will Smallbone.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">But, although Juninho Bacuna levelled on 77 minutes after Stansfield had hit the post, Saints had the final word when, from a headed Taylor Harwood-Bellis knockdown from a 96th-minute
corner, Joe Aribo found the bottom left corner from close range.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Plymouth vs Ipswich - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Plymouth 0 Ipswich 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Mickel Miller's volley for Argyle that was blocked on the line was the best effort of the first period.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">But Ipswich upped the intensity after the break as Kieffer Moore twice went close before Conor Chaplin fashioned the opener as his deflected shot wrong-footed Argyle keeper Conor
Hazard.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Moore sealed the points as he lashed in after a corner was flicked on, before Miller hit the post for the hosts.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Shrewsbury vs Blackpool - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Shrewsbury 0 Blackpool 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Goals from Karamoko Dembele and Hayden Coulson secured Blackpool a 2-0 victory at Shrewsbury.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Shrewsbury went close when Tom Bloxham sent a first-time cross into the box, but Dan Udoh's diving header was kept out by Dan Grimshaw.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackpool were then awarded a free-kick in the 40th minute, from which George Byers' header looped over the Shrewsbury backline but found the hands of keeper Harry Burgoyne.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Three minutes later, the Tangerines opened the scoring when Coulson received a pass in the box and cut the ball across goal for Dembele, who fired past Burgoyne at the back post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16"></span><span class="tm16">Shrewsbury went close just before the hour mark when Udoh sent a low cross into Jordan Shipley, who fired over from just inside the box.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">But Blackpool doubled their advantage in the 84th minute when Dembele's cross found the unmarked Coulson, who headed home.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Colchester vs Stockport - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Match postponed</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Not a bad week, I suppose. Three out of four isn’t so bad. What has The Grambler randomly selected this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Barnsley vs Cheltenham - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Reading vs Cambridge - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Shrewsbury vs Carlisle - Home win - Evens</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Wycombe vs Northampton - Home win - 3/4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln vs Bristol - Home win - 8/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm12 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm18"></span><em><u><span class="tm19">£10.50</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">A little bit more whopping than last time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm22">1. </span><span class="tm22">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Aachen, Germany in 1999. An attacking midfielder, I began my senior career at Bayer Leverkusen before moving to Chelsea for a fee of around £62 million. I moved
to my current club, Arsenal, for £65 million. I have been capped for Germany 42 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Kai Havertz</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Brazilian has scored four goals in a Premier League match?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Gabriel Jesus</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Premier League side has drawn the most games so far this season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Brighton & Hove Albion</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which Mexican player has made the most Premier League appearances?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Chicharito (158)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which Scottish football stadium can accommodate the most spectators?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Celtic Park</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">They were easy, weren’t they? Shall we have five more for this week? Why not...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Bradford in 1991. A right-back, I began my senior career at Newcastle in 2009. Though I spent five years at the club, I played only eight games for them and was loaned
out to six other clubs during that time. I then signed with Wigan playing only 13 games in my time there. Again, I was loaned out to another club. In 2015, I moved northwards to join my current club. I was appointed captain
in 2018 and have now played over 300 games for them.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Who was the first non-English manager to win the English Football League Cup?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which English Championship side has drawn the most games in the current season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who is Fulham’s current club captain?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club plays its home games at Ainslie Park?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it. Have fun trying to work that lot out. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your
pals so that they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><u><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></u></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£75,498</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Ms. J. Eclair who celebrates her birthday and provides us with a few thoughts to end this week’s edition...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>I am very short-sighted, and if I don't like a situation I take my glasses off.</i></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">I might be needy, competitive and desperate but it's far better than being wet.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>A good fart joke makes me bawl with laughter, so will somebody farting. And the word 'poo.' You can't beat a good poo joke.</i></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">My older sister is bossy, my brother is a stirrer and me - well, I am perfect!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>I'm the least spiritual person in the world. I can't even abide a smelly candle. I know it's meant to make me relax, and that immediately makes my hackles rise.</i></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm26"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm a schizophrenic mix of wannabe glamourpuss and absolute slob, and my style is very much magistrate-meets-barmaid.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm27"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>There should be more booing in shops and restaurants and places like that when the service is bad. If you've had a poor breakfast in a hotel, you should put your knife
and fork down and boo.</i></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">After graduating from flares and platforms in the early 1970s, I started drama school wearing a pair of khaki dungarees with one of my Dad's Army shirts, accessorised by a
cat's basket doubling as a handbag. Very Lady Gaga.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm28"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>I think my siblings sometimes have to defend me within their social circles - they are both barristers.</i></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">I am best viewed from a distance... and at night.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm16">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-13453569515028001522024-03-02T10:55:00.001+00:002024-03-02T10:55:57.036+00:00Post 500 - Grambling on and on and on...<p> <em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time (Part 1)...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Well well well, will you take a look at that? Post number 500. Who'd have thought that I'd still be writing this drivel after all this time?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Much has happened since the start of this, the world's greatest ill-informed blog. Wars, loony presidents, loony prime ministers, a pandemic that brought the world to its knees
and, most importantly, the sad death of this blog's founder aged just 28. It's the reason the blog still exists; to raise awareness about the horrible disease that is bowel cancer. Please remember to check out the
latest information relating to it by clicking on the links highlighted. And please remember to tell friends and family about its importance.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, lecture over. What earth-shattering topic had caught my eye this week?<br />Well, since the last edition of your favourite ill-informed blog a certain septagenar... septejen...
septegen... bloke in his seventies has retired. Yes Woy... sorry... Roy Hodgson has decided, at the age of 76, to hang up his managerial football boots. Quite right. How can a guy of that age run any club, let alone one in
the Premier League? What must training sessions have been like?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Right lads, our next match is on Wednesday'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Tuesday boss.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Is it? Thanks for that... erm... John.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Joel.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Yes, I'm fine. Anyway, as I was saying, our next match is on Tuesday against Liverpool.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Luton boss.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'I'm what?'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'We play Luton boss.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Do we? I thought they were in the championship.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'They got promotion boss'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'They have indeed. And I want that from you. The three Es... Emotion, emotion and I forget the last one.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'No boss. They got promoted.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Who?'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Luton boss.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'I don't want to get the bus to Luton.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'No boss. Luton Town. The team.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'What about them?'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'We play them on Tuesday.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Do we? That's news to me. I'm 76, you know.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Yes, we know, boss.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘I’ve got all me own teeth.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Definitely time to go.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">For some, though, the lure of running a football team never seems to go away even after they have retired. Neil Warnock, after managing 16 different clubs in England, retired at
the age of 74. Sensible guy. Time to relax a bit and tend to the garden.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What? Our Neil? Retire? As if! Take up gardening? Surely not. Surely yes, he finally decided it was time to go and... oh, hang on a mo, he's back again. He has now taken over
the reins at Aberdeen.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yep, Mr Warnock has returned to footy management at the grand old age of 75.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">He must be the oldest manager in the English and Scottish leagues. Bound to be.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">But is he the oldest in the world?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">No chance. There is one manager who, at the age of 77, is still working. Not only that, but the number of clubs he has managed over the years makes Neil Warnock's tally look
like a piddling insignificant amount.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Step forward Edoardo Reja, the current manager of Slovenian side Gorica. The number of clubs managed? 24 and (quite possibly) counting.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Looks like somebody wants to die with his (football) boots on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><strong><span class="tm11">Story Time (Part 2)...</span></strong></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">You may have heard a certain Mr B. Rodgers being interviewed after last week's Motherwell vs Celtic game. He was very reticent about answering the questions being put to him
and was quite condescending to the young lady reporter who was doing her best to interview him. And his finishing statement of 'Good girl' was not only sexist but very patronising. I'd imagine he has form in such
dealings with female members of the press. Here is an interview which may or may not have taken place...*</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Mr Rodgers...'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Well helloooo there. Ding dong!'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'If you'll just let me finish this apple-like piece of fruit, I'd like to ask you about today's game...'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'I was just about to remark on what a lovely pear you’ve got, darling.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Can you give me an answer as to why Celtic's performance was so poor in the first half?'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Well, I'd certainly like to give you one. Know what I mean?'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Yes, that is as may be, but what is your answer?'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'You're making this very hard for me. Phwoar!'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'I think you're the one making it hard.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'No, it's definitely you that is making it hard. Woof! Down boy!'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Mr Rodgers, I think you are being very sexist.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Too right, darling. This could be your lucky night.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Mr Rodgers, have you ever heard of a misogynist?'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'No. Is she as good-looking as you. Eh? Is she a goer? Eh? Eh? Does she like a bit of the old rumpy pum...'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Thank you, Mr Rodgers.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Your place or mine, darling?'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'Mr Rodgers, you are a leering, chauvinistic, misogynistic, woman-hating old sleazeball! I demand that you apologise immediately!'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Oh. I’m very sorry.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Good boy.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">*It most definitely didn’t.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 24th of February? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lydia Becker 1827 - A leader of the early British Suffrage movement.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Lewis 1836 - Shopkeeper.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Langdon 1914 - Cartoonist and illustrator.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Betty Marsden 1919 - Actress and Comedienne. Dame Celia Molestrangler in </span><em><span class="tm8">Round The Horne</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Pat Kirkwood 1921 - Actress. Played Vesta Tilley in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Great Little Tilley</span></em><span class="tm9"> and </span><em><span class="tm8">After the Ball</span></em><span class="tm9">. Would you like a bit of juicy gossip? It was rumoured that she had an affair with Prince Philip in the late 1940s.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Richard Hamilton 1922 - Artist. One of the first exponents of pop art.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jean Alexander 1926 - Actress. Hilda Ogden in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian Close 1931 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Doreen Sloane 1934 - Actress. Annabelle Collins in </span><em><span class="tm8">Brooookside</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jess Conrad 1936 - Actor and singer. This reached number 39 in 1960, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85LZtPD_icw">Cherry Pie.</a> Ye gods!</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Denis Law 1940 - Fitba guy. He and Kenny Dalglish hold the joint record of scoring the most goals (30) for Scotland. Law scored his in 55 appearances, King Kenny took over 100.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Gooderson 1941 - Actor. Pathologist in </span><em><span class="tm8">A Touch of Frost</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Stapleton 1946 - TV presenter. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rupert Holmes 1947 - Composer, Singer/songwriter, musician, dramatist and author... in fact, a right old smartyboots. Let’s have a clip... other than Escape (</span><span class="tm15">The Piña Colada Song</span><span class="tm9">)... Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WbQ5GCo6m0">Him.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Walter Smith 1948 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dennis Waterman 1948 - Actor and singer. William Brown in </span><em><span class="tm8">William</span></em><span class="tm9"> (1962). Shall we have a musical clip? [Must we? - Ed.] Yes. Here's </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13kuYAgOUWw">For Their Pleasure.</a> [Not for my pleasure. - Ed.]</span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;">Richard Digence 1949 - Comedian and singer.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Derek Randall 1951 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Clyde Best 1951 - Footy bloke. Not related to George. Or Pete.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Steve ‘Dobby’ Dawson 1952 - Musician. Founding member of Saxon. Factoid: The character of Derek Smalls in </span><em><span class="tm8">This Is Spinal Tap</span></em><span class="tm9"> was based on Dobby. Shall we have a clip? Here’s a live version of Saxon’s biggest hit to date </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tj7v89bjIqc">And The Bands Played On.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Crawford Baptie 1959 - Fitba guy. Ex Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Robert Hudson 1960 - Actor. Yorkie Smith in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Bill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andy Crane 1964 - TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ben Miller 1966 - Comedian, actor and director.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Neil Sullivan 1970 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ryan Fraser 1994 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Anthony Gordon 2001 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ramona Marquez 2001 - Actress. Karen Brockman in </span><em><span class="tm8">Outnumbered</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And now let’s have a look at birthdays from the 2nd of March...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alex Graham 1917 - Cartoonist. He created the hilarious... it says here... Fred Bassett.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Basil Hume 1923 - The well-known cardinal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jean Metcalfe 1923 - Broadcaster.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Patrick Nuttgens 1930 - Architect.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Tusa 1936 - Television executive.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Deddie Davies 1938 - Mrs Little in </span><em><span class="tm8">Chance in a Million</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Hugh Walters 1939 - Mr Little in </span><em><span class="tm8">Chance in a Million</span></em><span class="tm9">. What are the chances of that happening? [One in a million? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Billy McNeill 1940 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jon Finch 1942 - Actor. Voltigern in </span><em><span class="tm8">Merlin of The Crystal Cave</span></em><span class="tm9">. What do you mean, you’ve never heard of it? Neither have I, come to that. Factoid: He turned down the chance to be James Bond in </span><em><span class="tm8">Live and Let Die</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Adrian Metcalfe 1942 - Athleticky bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">George Layton 1942 - Actor. Paul Collier in </span><em><span class="tm8">Doctor in the House</span></em><span class="tm9"> and its sequels.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzJ4UuhP2dU8FbGRifAKohAKe1i-jnVqLwnd_X_KYYpNUsJed__EkYMdjnU0pelZi_Ly8c9i6GcxXyYyV40n2pni9I6yGDwkwZW7Xyc9ZKemY_gRLACE49KXI-HN-4q3Z2NJxz8uyjy71vXAvhzaVEH6kX65hEkKaub6hiVJ0moywomN4LZT1oAcMV60/s411/george%20layton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="411" data-original-width="316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzJ4UuhP2dU8FbGRifAKohAKe1i-jnVqLwnd_X_KYYpNUsJed__EkYMdjnU0pelZi_Ly8c9i6GcxXyYyV40n2pni9I6yGDwkwZW7Xyc9ZKemY_gRLACE49KXI-HN-4q3Z2NJxz8uyjy71vXAvhzaVEH6kX65hEkKaub6hiVJ0moywomN4LZT1oAcMV60/s320/george%20layton.jpg" width="246" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="text-align: left;">I’m 82, you know. I’ve got all me own teeth.</span></span></div><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tony Meehan 1943 - Musician. He was the original drummer with The Shadows. He and bass player Jet Harris later left the band to work as a duo. Here is their second hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFt0aY5TwAA">Scarlett O'Hara.</a> I don't recall that in <i>Gone With The Wind</i>.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Stuart McGugan 1944 - Actor. Bomba MacAteer in </span><em><span class="tm8">Tutti Frutti</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Harry Redknapp 1947 - Footy geezer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">J.P.R. Williams 19</span><span class="tm9">49 - Chwaraewr rygbi.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Altman 1952 - Actor. Nick Cotton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Eastenders</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael Troughton 1955 - Actor. Piers Fletcher-Dervish in </span><em><span class="tm8">The New Statesman</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ian Woosnam 1958 - Golfy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Howard Bernstein aka Howie B 1963 - Musician, producer and DJ. Shall we have a clip? Why not. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJHqrocg78c">Angels Go Bald Too.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lembit Opik 1965 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Martin Gilks 1965 - Musician. Founder member of The Wonder Stuff. Factoid: He was voted the best drummer on the planet in a 1989 NME poll. Shall we have another clip? Indeed we shall.
Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIKUZjc4gVo">Don't Let Me Down.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Neil Oliver 1967 - TV presenter and author.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dennis Seaton 1967 - Singer and record producer. Frontman with Musical Youth. Here’s a blast from the past, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OU3UfgKJoCk">Never Gonna Give You Up.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Daniel Craig 1968 - Actor who did take up the offer of playing James Band.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Neil Bell 1970 - Actor. Harry Fenton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Peaky Blinders</span></em><span class="tm9">. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alexander Armstrong 1970 - Actor, comedian, Radio and TV presenter and singer. In fact, a right old smarty boots.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dave Gorman 1971 - Comedian, presenter and writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Trevor Sinclair 1973 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Helen Latham 1976 - Actress. Lucy Milligan in </span><em><span class="tm8">Footballers Wives</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andrew Strauss 1977 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Martin 1977 - Musician. Frontman for Coldplay. Let’s have a clip. [I hope it’s got a clever video; they always do a good video. - Ed.] Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0k_1kvDh2UA">Speed of Sound.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark Kerr 1982 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Elizabeth Jagger 1982 - Model and actress, it says here.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Gramblin Gilks,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was wonderful to hear a song from your wonderful band The Wonder Stuff. I wonder if you could answer a question for me. I was wondering if you ever had a number one record. I have
a memory that you collaborated with somebody on a song which may have reached the top spot. Am I correct?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours in wonderment,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOlG92rb2Zg">D. Zee.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Borkdales fare? We won... and lost. We only lost a few pees, this time, though. £2.10 back from our £2.20 stake. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Newcastle vs Burnley - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Newcastle 2 Did I say Burnley? Bournemouth, I meant. 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the post!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Second-half substitute Matt Ritchie converted from close range after the visitors failed to adequately deal with Bruno Guimaraes' inswinging delivery.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Bournemouth will be deeply frustrated not to have claimed all three points at St James' Park after twice taking the lead in an entertaining and, at times, chaotic second period.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Dominic Solanke capitalised on a Martin Dubravka slip to break the deadlock, only for Newcastle to equalise seven minutes later through Anthony Gordon's contentious penalty.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Antoine Semenyo appeared to have earned Bournemouth the victory with a thunderous finish from the corner of the penalty area, but veteran winger Ritchie had the final say.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">[Burnley, indeed. You’re as bad as Roy Hodgson. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Norwich vs Cardiff - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Norwich 4 Cardiff 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Josh Sargent scored twice to help Norwich come from behind to thrash Cardiff City.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Norwich dominated throughout and created numerous chances but trailed against the run of play as Jamilu Collins headed Cardiff in front in the first half.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Sargent equalised for the Canaries with a close-range strike, before Gabriel Sara gave the hosts a thoroughly deserved lead with a superb curling free-kick from 25 yards just before
half-time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Sargent volleyed in his second after the break, following up his own initial shot which hit the post, and substitute Christian Fassnacht finished confidently to add a fourth.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Swansea vs Ipswich - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Swansea 1 Ipswich 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Nathan Broadhead raced on to Ben Cabango's underhit pass before coolly lifting a shot into the net to give Ipswich a deserved early lead.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Swansea struggled for a while before finding an equaliser, Jerry Yates touching the ball in from close range from Cabango's knockdown.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">But Ipswich quickly scored what proved to be the decisive second goal before half-time, Conor Chaplin finishing smartly from Leif Davis' low cross.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Bristol vs QPR - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Bristol 0 QPR 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Boo!</b></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Ilias Chair's first-half goal sealed an important win for Queens Park Rangers at Bristol City.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The Moroccan international slotted in Lucas Andersen's pull-back.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Robins substitute Tommy Conway shot narrowly wide from a tight angle as the home side searched for the equaliser but the visitors held on to claim all three points.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Derby vs Stevenage - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Derby 1 Stevenage 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Joe Wildsmith missed a corner and Sonny Bradley had to clear off the line in the 31st minute, and Wildsmith then rescued Derby soon after when the hosts failed to deal with a long
throw and the goalkeeper stopped Jordan Roberts' shot on the turn.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Derby did not register a shot on goal in the first half and they continued to struggle until Kane Wilson surged forward in the 68th minute and played in Nathaniel Mendez-Laing,
but he fired wide.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Max Bird was denied by a superb Taye Ashby-Hammond save in the 77th minute, but Derby struck late on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Mendez-Laing cut in from the right and set up Louie Sibley who finished first time from 12 yards.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Huddersfield vs Leeds - Away win - 3/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Birmingham vs Southampton - Away win - 17/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Plymouth vs Ipswich - Away win - 7/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Shrewsbury vs Blackpool - Away win - 19/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Colchester vs Stockport - Away win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Away, away, away, away... as the old footy chant goes. Something like that, anway. Five aways? Not sure about that. No matter, the bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles
plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm12 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm18"></span><em><u><span class="tm19">£10.22</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Naw. Not whopping at all.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm22">1. </span><span class="tm22">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Essen, Germany in 1996. A winger, I began my senior career at Schalke 04 before moving to Manchester City for a reported £37 million fee. In 2020, I signed for my
present club, Bayern Munich for 60 million euros. I have been capped for Germany 59 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Leroy Sané</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which South African player has made the most Premier League appearances?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Steven Pienaar</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. How many current Premier League clubs do not have animals on their crest?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Seven (Arsenal, Everton, Fulham, Manchester City, Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United and West Ham United)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which was the last club outside the top flight to reach an F.A. Cup Final?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Cardiff City (Lost to Portsmouth in 2008)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. At what stadium did Derby County play their home games before moving to Pride Park?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - The Baseball Ground</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">They were easy, weren’t they? Would you like another five for this week? Of course you would...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Aachen, Germany in 1999. An attacking midfielder, I began my senior career at Bayer Leverkusen before moving to Chelsea for a fee of around £62 million. I moved
to my current club, Arsenal, for £65 million. I have been capped for Germany 42 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Brazilian has scored four goals in a Premier League match?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Premier League side has drawn the most games so far this season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which Mexican player has made the most Premier League appearances?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which Scottish football stadium can accommodate the most spectators?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it. Have fun trying to work that lot out. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your
pals so that they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£75,330</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm15">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Mr. R. Digance who provides us with this week’s finishing item. Essex-born Richard Digance followed the likes of Billy
Connolly, Jasper Carrott, Mike Harding and Max Boyce as a story-telling folk singer. He was particularly successful in the 1980s when he fronted his own hour-long specials on TV. I thought you might enjoy this early example
of his work; here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2xlFeQuqbQ">Beaver the Believer.</a> Wasn’t that nice?</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm15"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm15">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-32433352666307558962024-02-17T12:36:00.001+00:002024-02-19T19:35:43.520+00:00Post 499 - More than my gramble's worth<p> </p><p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8"></span><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see. </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">You may be wondering how I come up with different topics to enlighten you week in, week out. Or you may be wondering why I bother writing such </span><s><span class="tm13">drivel</span></s><span class="tm9"> inventive material, in the first place. I get inspiration from the oddest places and this week’s topic was prompted by watching an old situation comedy from the
1990s. Why? Pull up a chair and I’ll tell ee...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The programme’s name isn’t important, but a certain comedy trope is. You see, during this show, our lead female character goes for a job interview. As is standard
with sitcom portrayals of such interviews, the interviewee (our heroine) is sat on a chair in the middle of a large office while three severe-looking interviewers ‘interrogate’ her. The comedy comes from the interviewee’s
discomfort and her attempts at answers being spectacularly wrong.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It is a comedy scene that has been played out in sitcoms, probably from the birth of sitcoms themselves. A would-be employee goes for an interview under-prepared and the interview
panel comprises three or more forbidding-looking people asking questions to trip the applicant up. The applicant is always portrayed as being terrified by the experience and always gives silly or wrong answers to the questions
being asked. The meeting can end in two ways. The first is that the applicant leaves the interview almost in tears because of the way they screwed up and failed to get the job. The second is that the applicant knows they
have screwed up totally, but, in the old switcheroony comedy technique, is offered the job by an impressed panel of interviewers.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">As I said at the start, it is a comedy trope that has been utilised in dozens, if not hundreds, of sitcoms.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It made me think back to some of the interviews I went to when I was of working age. I tended to go for interviews feeling quite nervous, especially if I was applying for a job
that I really wanted. Strange that, eh?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, usually I was interviewed by one person, so there wasn’t that interrogation approach. I generally felt quite relaxed at these. Maybe I didn’t always get offered
the job, but I did at least feel that the interview went well.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes, I knew immediately that I probably wouldn’t get the job. Before a word had been spoken, I knew. This was all to do with the way my hand was shaken as I entered
the interview room. Not in the right club. Oh well.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Only on one occasion did I encounter the panel of five people facing me. I should have felt intimidated by this, but I wasn’t. I am an awkward so-and-so by nature and my
way of dealing with the situation was this: I told myself that I wasn’t impressed with this company because it wasted far too much time and effort on interviewing people, so I didn’t really want whatever job was
on offer. In other words, why the hell were five people using valuable time interviewing me when they should have been doing something more important, like actual work? As it was, I was the one wasting their time. Time
for some fun.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I probably did feel a bit nervous, initially, but my attitude soon changed from fear to... bravado seems an appropriate word.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Questions were thrown at me such as ‘What might you change if you came to work with us?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer: ‘I think I’d consider your interviewing setup. I hate overmanning.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Question: ‘What would you say was your worst feature?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer: ‘You ought to know that is not a question for an interview. Who is going to answer that one honestly?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Question: ‘Where do you see yourself in five years time?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer: ‘From what I’ve seen so far, working somewhere else.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And so it went on. I was just winding them up, of course; I really didn’t want to work there. So it came as a bit of a shock that a letter (No such thing as emails back
then) arrived after a few days offering me the job.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">You’ll be pleased to know that, in true awkward b*gg*r style, I turned it down. Although, I may have twisted things a little by saying that. You see, when I was offered
the job, I used it as ammunition to get my boss to offer me more money to stay put.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There was method in my madness... Or should that read madness in my method? Why? Let’s face it, my manager could just as easily have told me where to go.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 17th of February? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">William Cadbury 1867 - Businessman. He wasn’t the founder of the Cadbury confectioners, that was his grandfather. However, it was he who ‘designed’ the Cadbury logo
in 1905 which is still used today and is basically the script he used to write his name.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Marjorie Fielding 1892 - Actress. Mrs Chalk in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Lavendar Hill Mob</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Clifford Evans 1912 - Actor. Caswell Bligh in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Power Game</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ron Goodwin 1925 - Composer. Shall we have a clip? Yes, let’s. He wrote many scores for films such as </span><em><span class="tm8">Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines</span></em><span class="tm9"> (now better known as the introduction music for the Radio 4 comedy quiz I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue) and </span><em><span class="tm8">Monte Carlo or Bust</span></em><span class="tm9"> as well as the music behind the Margaret Rutherford as Miss Marple films. He also wrote the music which the Beeb Beeb Ceeb use whenever the London Marathon is
televised. Here, however, is arguably his most famous work... and I make no apologies for repeating the link from this week six years back..., </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_Mi4QCx-u8">633 Squadron.</a> <span class="tm9">Did you spot Angus Lennie aka Hughie McPhee from </span><em><span class="tm8">Crossroads</span></em><span class="tm9">?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Patricia Routledge 1929 - Actress. Hyacinth Bucket in </span><em><span class="tm8">Keeping Up Appearances</span></em><span class="tm9">. She sings, as well. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQPv-yzvR1U">And I Was Beautiful.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Philip Latham 1929 - Actor. Arthur Bourne in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Cedar Tree</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ruth Rendell 1930 - Authoress. She created Inspector Wexford and wrote 24 novels featuring the character. ITV later dramatised the books and made 48 episodes of </span><em><span class="tm8">The Ruth Rendell Mysteries</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alan Bates 1934 - Actor. Michael Henchard in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Mayor of Casterbridge</span></em><span class="tm9">. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Leyton 1936 - Actor and singer. William Dickes, ‘Tunnel King’ in The Great Escape. Also, he had a number one record. Here’s that song, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7e4JXwd7XMo">Johnny, Remember Me.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Benjamin Whitrow 1937 - Actor. Robert Douglas in </span><em><span class="tm8">Chancer</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Julia McKenzie 1941 - Actress. Mrs Forrester in </span><em><span class="tm8">Cranford</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nick Hewer 1944 - TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bernie Grant 1944 - Politician. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Karl Jenkins 1944 - Musician. One time member of Soft Machine. Here’s a track he wrote and played on, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zz3Tn0-TxjM">Nettle Bed.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lynn Dalby 1947 - Actress. Hazel Fletcher in </span><em><span class="tm8">Budgie</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Malcolm Rennie 1947 - Fraser in </span><em><span class="tm8">Mr Selfridge</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Prunella Gee 1950 - Actress. Patricia in </span><em><span class="tm8">Never Say Never Again</span></em><span class="tm9">. Factoid: She was the first person to be seen fully naked on British television when she appeared in </span><em><span class="tm8">Shabby Tiger</span></em><span class="tm9"> in 1973.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGZERhRjAukvAa-RY128mP_shQCcDegHINH6bMxybMaZXwyRLbBqndi8v6HwpBzFOsOleIHoyJIPwb3KUEkEe6N7OpiyaHtei1ugXvfVyIGm9jKl8XUpZeq55BqPQ1105RC9U3IKNUDFKlIsHbfe056dyXE8bDY9jw_-UBLTvU1C5ZkxmzUiYxqeVDzGE/s508/prunella%20gee.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="426" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGZERhRjAukvAa-RY128mP_shQCcDegHINH6bMxybMaZXwyRLbBqndi8v6HwpBzFOsOleIHoyJIPwb3KUEkEe6N7OpiyaHtei1ugXvfVyIGm9jKl8XUpZeq55BqPQ1105RC9U3IKNUDFKlIsHbfe056dyXE8bDY9jw_-UBLTvU1C5ZkxmzUiYxqeVDzGE/s320/prunella%20gee.jpg" width="268" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="text-align: left;">I don’t even like tigers</span></span></div><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael Marra 1952 - Musician. Here’s a song about a Sunday practice in certain parts of Scotland. </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntT37AZzx8Q">Chain Up The Swings.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Norman Pace 1953 - Comedian. Half of 1980s’ popular duo, Hale and Pace.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Malcolm Wilson 1956 - Rally drivery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Angela and Maria Eagle 1961 - Political twins.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jeremy Edwards 1971 - Actor. Kurt Benson in </span><em><span class="tm8">Hollyoaks</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lucy Davis 1973 - Dianne in Shaun of the Dead.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rory Kinnear 1978 - Actor. Michael Baker in </span><em><span class="tm8">Count Arthur Strong</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Rebecca Adlington 1989 - Swimmy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bonnie Wright 1991 - Actress. Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter series of films.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ed Sheeran 1991 - Rather successful singer/songwriter. Shall we have a clip? Why not. Here’s an apt song for this blog, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJse76xLVic">A Beautiful Game.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear (the late) Ron Gramblewin,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I believe I am not alone in saying it was so nice to hear one of your, I believe, stirring tunes in this week’s blog. I believe you also wrote the score for the 1969 film Battle
of Britain which I believe was called Luftwaffe March but was later given a less warlike name which I believe was more acceptable to the Royal Airforce Band who, I believe, enjoy playing it. Do you know what its new title
was?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours believably,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KF73M5UnAaM">A. Sess-High.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Blorkdaes fare? We won... and lost. Yet again. Could it be worse than last time? Yes it could. 70 pees back from our £2.20 stake. Jeezo! What
happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Luton vs Sheffield - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Luton Town 1 Sheffield United 3</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><span class="tm17">Wha</span><span class="tm17">‽</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Cameron Archer beat Gabriel Osho for pace on the right flank and slotted into the bottom corner before James McAtee converted from the penalty spot as the Blades led by two league
goals for the first time this season.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Carlton Morris got one back for Luton, scoring a spot-kick shortly after the break.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Vini Souza restored United's two-goal cushion with a well-struck finish 18 minutes from time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Spurs vs Brighton - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Tottenham Hotspur 2 Brighton and Hove Albion 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Brennan Johnson scored deep into additional time to deliver a come-from-behind Premier League victory for Tottenham against Brighton.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Brighton's Pascal Gross opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Danny Welbeck had been fouled by Micky van de Ven, sending goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario the wrong way.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Tottenham responded well to falling behind, creating a raft of chances, but Jason Steele made several good saves to deny the in-form Richarlison and Dejan Kulusevski, while James
Maddison curled narrowly wide.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The momentum remained firmly in Spurs' favour when the second half got under way with Rodrigo Bentancur, Maddison and Timo Werner attempting efforts at goal as the majority
of the action took place deep in Brighton territory.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">They continued to probe and that pressure eventually told when Pape Matar Sarr latched on to a lovely through ball from Kulusevski before finishing at the second attempt after
his initial shot was deflected on to the post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Captain Son Heung-min was introduced after the equaliser and the forward had a major hand in the winning goal as he laid the ball across goal for Johnson to convert.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Wolves vs Brentford - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Wolverhampton Wanderers 0 Brentford 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I don’t believe it!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Ivan Toney scored his third goal in four Premier League games as Brentford clinched a deserved victory over misfiring Wolves at Molineux.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Christian Norgaard put the Bees ahead just after the half hour with a close-range header from a corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Craig Dawson thought he had equalised with a glancing header only for the Video Assistant Referee to determine he was in an offside position.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Toney secured the three points 13 minutes before the final whistle with a crisp finish from Vitaly Janelt's low cross.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln vs Fleetwood - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Lincoln City 2 Fleetwood Town 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">That’s more like it!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Promise Omochere (Cracking name of the week, for sure.) fired the Cod Army in front, but the game was turned on its head when Bosun Lawal was sent off for a second bookable offence
in first-half stoppage time at Sincil Bank.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The game sprung into live when Omochere nipped between the defence and Lukas Jensen to poke the visitors ahead.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Lawal was booked twice in seven minutes to be shown a red card. First he felled Ed Bishop and was then sent off for his part in a melee.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln took full advantage as Ben House rose highest to head home Reeco Hackett-Fairchild's cross.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">And four minutes later Hackett-Fairchild stood up another cross which fell kindly for Lasse Sorensen to smash home.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Conor McGrandles could have put the game to bed but was denied by a super Jay Lynch save.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackpool vs Oxford - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Blackpool 1 Oxford United 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the woodwork!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The Tangerines led through a goal from Matt Pennington in the first half, but Mark Harris got the visitors back level three minutes later.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">A header from Pennington opened the scoring in the 18th minute after Blackpool captain Ollie Norburn found the centre-back from an Albie Morgan corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Oxford were quickly level when Elliot Moore set up Harris to finish from close range following a scramble in the Blackpool box.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The U's continued their pressure and Harris was denied a second after his goal-bound shot was impressively blocked by defender Marvin Ekpiteta.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Oxford went within inches of an 87th-minute winner but Billy Bodin's header struck the woodwork (See? Told you.).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Two out of five seems to be the best The Grambler can muster these days. Come on, Grambler, pull your computery equivalent of socks up. What has he/she/it randomly predicted
this week.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Newcastle vs Burnley - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Norwich vs Cardiff - Home win - 5/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Swansea vs Ipswich - Away win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Bristol vs QPR - Home win - 20/21</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Derby vs Stevenage - Home win - 20/23</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Well, the bets look okay on paper [On a computer screen, surely. - Ed.] but I can see a few upsets; probably a draw or two. No matter, the bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles
plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm12 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm19"></span><em><u><span class="tm20">£12.06</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">A whole 4 pees whoppinger than last week. Whoop de doo.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm23">1. </span><span class="tm23">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Redbridge, England in 1999. I am a right back and have been at Chelsea throughout my senior career, apart from a loan spell at Wigan Athletic. I have been capped for
England 16 times. A big clue to my identity is that I am currently Chelsea’s captain.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Reece James</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which current Premier League club beat the cup holders Arsenal in the League Cup Final of 1988?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Luton Town</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Scot was named Middlesbrough player of the year in 2010 and 2012?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Barry Robson (Gissa job)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which Nigerian has made the most Premier League appearances?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Shola Ameobi</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club plays it’s home games at Sixfields Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Northampton Town</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Shall we have five for this week? Aye, go on, then.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Essen, Germany in 1996. A winger, I began my senior career at Schalke 04 before moving to Manchester City for a reported £37 million fee. In 2020, I signed for my
present club, Bayern Munich for 60 million euros. I have been capped for Germany 59 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which South African player has made the most Premier League appearances?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. How many current Premier League clubs do not have animals on their crest?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which was the last club outside the top flight to reach an F.A. Cup Final?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. At what stadium did Derby County play their home games before moving to Pride Park?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it. Have fun trying to work that lot out. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your
pals so that they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><u><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></u></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u><span class="tm9">£75,330</span></u></i></b></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm18">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am grateful to a Miss P. Routledge who finishes off this week’s edition. Yes, I know you’ve already had an item from her
as a singer, but I always enjoyed her as the character Kitty from </span><em><span class="tm24">Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV</span></em><span class="tm18">. So, here is a little clip from that mid 1980s show. The sketch was written by Victoria Wood and Dame Patricia plays her to perfection, but I wonder if Roy Clarke, the creator of </span><em><span class="tm24">Keeping Up Appearances</span></em><span class="tm18"> saw the makings of Hyacinth Bucket in Kitty. </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-iDlTBZhKg">Do you agree?</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm18"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm18">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-31345000372480502032024-02-10T14:01:00.001+00:002024-02-11T15:04:14.221+00:00Post 498 - Another hairy gramble<p> </p><p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8"></span><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see. </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you remember in my last story time I told you that the topic would be continued? I did. At the end. Do you remember? I wrote ‘to be continued’. No? You must
have forgotten. I suppose it was rather a long time ago. Three weeks, no less. Anyway, here, finally, is that continuation.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was commenting on male footballers insistence on wearing ever sillier head toppings known as hair. When I were a lad [Uh oh. Hovis time. - Ed.] men’s hair tended to have
a uniformity to it. It would be cut tidily and generally one player’s haircut was similar to another’s. Of course, there were those that couldn’t cope with premature baldness who would try to disguise the
fact that they had no hair on top. Even today, a certain dreadful combover style is known as a ‘Bobby Charlton’. Thankfully, such misguided vanity is rare these days.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Any road up, the point I was going to make was that way back then, it was women who had different hairstyles ranging from crop top to long flowing locks. Have you seen a women’s
football team these days? They all wear their hair the same. It is longish and tied back in a ponytail. That’s it. The standard style.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It seems that it is now the men, and I’m talking footballers here, who want to spend an inordinate amount of time at a hairdresser. How long does it take for these overpaid
and vain primadonnas to get their weird and wonderful hair styles?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">One style that I forgot to mention last week was the propensity (That’s a good word; wonder what it means.) of players who have long hair to now have what is known as an undercut.
In other words, the hair on the top of the head is kept long, but below a horizontal line just above the ear it is cropped. They then pile the long hair on top of the head in a top-knot.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The first high-profile player to adopt this odd look was Gareth Bale, but I reckon Leeds defender Luke Ayling got there first. In recent times the style has been copied by many
others and I doubt if it is because of Bale or Ayling’s influence; I would say that it has been popularised by Manchester City’s goal machine Erling Haaland. Perhaps lesser quality players think they will play
better if they adopt his style. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It reminds me of the tale of Samson and Delilah, where he lost his strength when he went to the barber’s. Sorry to tell you lads, but Samson/Haaland’s abilities had/have
nothing to do with their long locks; so why don’t you stop looking like a complete tw*t and have a haircut.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There’s more. Some of this following the herd culture seems to have rubbed off onto football managers. Sorry pardon excuse me? Manchester City's Pep Guardiola started it;
others have followed. There is now a football manager look. There is. Take a look at a lot of managers out there and you will see it. It is that the head is shaven, but there is a shortish beard.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Last time out, I said that Alejandro Garnacho had an odd hairstyle but, sticking with Manchester City personnel, let’s not forget that individual with perhaps the daftest
hairstyle around at the moment: Jack Grealish. What does he think he looks like with that hairband? </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The sad thing is that, like the Ronaldo tale I told you, young boys want to copy their hero and are adopting this silly-looking style, complete with hairband.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Either that, or they are just getting in touch with their feminine side. [I don’t think wokedom allows such comments nowadays so, apologies to any touchy buggers who might
have been offended by this article. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 27th of January? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Wolfgang Mozart 1756 - Composer. Known as a child prodigy, here is a piece he is supposed to have composed at the </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f29XKjl7NXA">age of six.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Charles Lutwidge Dodgson aka Lewis Carroll 1832 - Author. Wrote the Alice books. You know, the stories about the little girl who went on some unusual adventures. [More like trips,
I reckon. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Edward Smith 1850 - Captain of the R.M.S. Titanic.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">George Relph 1888 - Actor. Sam Weech in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Titfield Thunderbolt</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael Ripper 1913 - Jobbing actor. Thomas in </span><em><span class="tm8">Butterflies</span></em><span class="tm9">. In a film and TV career lasting some 60 years, he notched up 246 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian Rix 1924 - Ector-manager, luvvie. Famous for his Whitehall farces and dropping his trousers a lot.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzfdRd6s_CjzD9Ckb31wy6H57LQxJTmR8Fa_i9ejIxAcFCFeOaEc9nnTYDebOmJ4GnZqids8ble1C9oZnVOVlcElWX9NYKNF2T_O1mW2ZDxTmLMCJcm8TgKkmlHYRzoprgdpvS9K9CLveinlj5mFNzZYjdLAhQwqKfoCWDYSy2zqGw0elARrBe7Ayg0o/s715/brian%20rix.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzfdRd6s_CjzD9Ckb31wy6H57LQxJTmR8Fa_i9ejIxAcFCFeOaEc9nnTYDebOmJ4GnZqids8ble1C9oZnVOVlcElWX9NYKNF2T_O1mW2ZDxTmLMCJcm8TgKkmlHYRzoprgdpvS9K9CLveinlj5mFNzZYjdLAhQwqKfoCWDYSy2zqGw0elARrBe7Ayg0o/s320/brian%20rix.jpg" width="224" /></a></span></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyone know where I left my trousers?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Fritz Spiegl 1926 - Musician, journalist, writer, broadcaster and humorist. In fact, a right old smarty boots. Did you know he came up with the Radio 4 UK Theme? Did you care? Well,
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48YxyR-PSi8">here it is, anyway.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael Craig 1928 - Jobbing actor. Captain John Anderson in 78 episodes of the ill-fated </span><em><span class="tm8">Triangle</span></em><span class="tm9">, a soap-opera based on a North Sea Ferry. [You could say it disappeared without trace. Ha! - Ed.] No, I don’t think I’ll bother.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Ogdon 1937 - Pianist and composer. Would you like a little clip? Yes? Okay, here is this week’s wee bit </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzeTFCbHMfk">cult'yer.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Yallop 1937 - Writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Doug Baillie 1937 - Fitba guy and sports journalist. He was also one of the nicest people I have ever met.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Kevin Coyne 1944 - Musician. Have another clip. Here’s </span></span><span style="color: #0000ee; font-size: large;"><u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NylZ5NzRVo">Marlene.</a></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Chester Barnes 1947 - Table-tennisy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Derek Acorah 1950 - TV spiritual medium. In other words a charlatan. If he wants to sue me for saying that, I will apologise. Otherwise, he remains a charlatan (albeit a dead one).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alex Norton 1950 - Actor. Eric in </span><em><span class="tm8">Two Doors Down</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Frank Skinner 1957 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Phil Cunningham 1960 - Musician who gets wheeled out and given a rub down with an oily cloth every new year to play his accordian. You want a clip? I’ll see if there is anything
out there in the ethernet. This’ll make you think you are at a funeral, here's </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyHNtmkg_J0">Abide With Me.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gillian Gilbert 1961 - Musician. Best known as the keyboardist with New Order. Let’s have another clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_L_-CKg6pw">Confusion.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mark Moraghan 1963 - Actor. He’s been on loads of stuff like </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street, Holby City</span></em><span class="tm9"> and </span><em><span class="tm8">The Bill</span></em><span class="tm9">, but you (or your children) will know him best as the narrator on </span><em><span class="tm8">Thomas and Friends</span></em><span class="tm9">. As an aside, I find it amusing that he recently narrated what I’m guessing is a piss take on his previous train-based voiceover work called </span><em><span class="tm8">Stuff with Talking Trains</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Robbie Earle 1965 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alan Cumming 1965 - Actor. Sebastian Flight in </span><em><span class="tm8">The High Life</span></em><span class="tm9">. That was before he became a favourite luvvie in the States.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mark Owen 1972 - Singer/songwriter. One fifth, then one quarter and now one third of Take That, a boyband whose members’ ages range from 52 to 55. Hmm. Middle-aged manband doesn’t
sound quite right, does it? A clip? Here’s a solo hit called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hoX2ixNX6EY">Four Minute Warning.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lucy Porter 1973 - Comedienne.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andi Osho 1973 - Comedienne.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ian Stirling 1988 - Comedien... comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Morgan Gibbs-White 2000 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And now... the 3rd of February.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Flora MacLeod of MacLeod 1878 - Clan chief.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Doris Speed 1899 - Actress. Annie Walker in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Edward Sinclair 1914 - Actor. Mr. Yeatman (the verger) in </span><em><span class="tm8">Dad’s Army</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Frankie Vaughan 1928 - Singer. Known as ‘Mr Moonlight’ because of </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ilo83LRCJrE">Give Me The Moonlight.</a> That’s what used to pass for entertainment. Ye gods!</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Molly Parkin 1932 - Artist and self-publicist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alex Young 1937 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Eric Haydock 1943 - Musician. The original bass guitarist in The Hollies. Let’s have another toon. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a20WWY2-sZI">I'm Alive.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Royston Vasey aka Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown 1945 - Comedian, it says here.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Stan Webb 1946 - Musician. Frontman of Chicken Shack. Have another clip. Here is one of the first records I ever bought, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoiYkvAo3iU">Tears In The Wind.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dave Davies 1947 - Musician. A Kink and the first member of that band to have a solo hit and here it is, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcfJ66oSFnc">Death of a Clown.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tim Friese-Greene 1955 - Musician. He worked with 80s band Talk Talk before working under the name Heligoland. Here is a clip of a more recent work, Melodic Apoptosis, (produced under
his own name now) </span><span class="tm9"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXw0SJmN6a0">Les Voiles Tournent Encore.</a> Niiice.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kirsty Wark 1955 - Journalist and TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lol Tolhurst 1959 - Musician. Founding member of The Cure. A clip? I should say. Here’s the band’s first record to chart... but only in Australia and New Zealand for some
reason, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GkVhgIeGJQ">Boys Don't Cry.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Paul Venables 1962 - Actor. Jamie in </span><em><span class="tm8">May to December.</span></em><span class="tm9"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gary Webster 1964 - Actor. Took over from Denis Waterman in </span><em><span class="tm8">Minder</span></em><span class="tm9">, playing the new ‘minder’, Ray.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nick Hawkins 1965 - Musician. He was a member of Mick Jones’ band Big Audio Dynamite II. I think a clip is in order. Here is </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPrPNpzLHIk">The Globe.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tim Flowers 1967 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Darren Peacock 1968 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Matt Johnson 1969 - Musician. Keyboardist with Jamiroquai. Let’s have a clip from them. Here’s an early hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQ3yv3MluHg">Too Young to Die.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Warwick Davis 1970 - Actor and TV presenter. Willow in </span><em><span class="tm8">Willow</span></em><span class="tm9"> (the film and the TV series).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jayne Middlemiss 1971 - TV and radio presen’er, laik. That was meant to be a Northumbrian accent written down. [Doesn’t really work. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ben Turner 1981 - Actor. Before heading west to the States, he played Jay Faldren in </span><em><span class="tm8">Casualty</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Maurice Ross 1981 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Marcus Tudgay 1983 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Peter Pawlett 1991 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Adam Reach 1993 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And now... the 10th of February.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Samuel Plimsoll 1824 - Politician, but more famous for devising the line on a ship which indicates the maximum safe draught. Would you like a factoid? Canvas sand-shoes are sometimes
known as plimsolls. This has nothing to do with the man, but is tenuously connected to the Plimsoll line. The name for the shoe came about because the coloured horizontal band where the upper joins the sole resembles the
line on a ship. [How very interesting. Yawn. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">George Muff 1877 - Politician. I’ve never actually heard of him but my schoolboy sense of humour came to the fore and I had to include him.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Harold Macmillan 1894 - The well-known prime minister who assured us that we had never had it so good and, do you know what? When I see the current state of Britain, I think he was
right.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Black 1895 - Businessman who ran the Standard Car Company in its years of profitability.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Charles Victor 1896 - Jobbing actor. One of those faces that seemed to be always cropping up in British films of a certain era. Often played unnamed roles such as Customer in Night
Club, Garage Owner or, my favourite, Aircraft Spotter on Works Roof.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rachel Thomas 1905 - Actress, isn’t it. If ever you wanted someone to play a stereotypical Welsh mother or granny, Rachel was your girl. Mrs Nicholas in </span><em><span class="tm8">How Green Was My Valley</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joyce Grenfell 1910 - Comedienne, singer and actress.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Norm McCabe 1911 - Animator. Worked on the Merry Melodies and Looney Tunes cartoon series. Not all his work would be acceptable nowadays, especially his wartime work such as </span><em><span class="tm8">The Ducktators</span></em><span class="tm9">, </span><em><span class="tm8">Confusions of a Nutzy Spy</span></em><span class="tm9"> and </span><em><span class="tm8">Tokio Jokio</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Phyllis Dixey 1914 - Singer and erotic dancer. Don’t ask me how I know of her, I just do.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Danny Blanchflower 1926 - Foody blook, so he was.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Ringham 1928 - Jobbing actor. Mr Warrender in </span><em><span class="tm8">Just Good Friends</span></em><span class="tm9">. 204 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gordon Pirie 1931 - Long-distance runnery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Barrie Ingham 1932 - Actor. Joe Hine in </span><em><span class="tm8">Hine</span></em><span class="tm9">. Ask your dad.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Donald Burton 1934 - Actor. Ackerman in </span><em><span class="tm8">Big Breadwinner Hog</span></em><span class="tm9">. Ask your dad, again.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">James Alexander Gordon 1936 - Radio broadcaster. Famous for reading the classified football results every Saturday at 5pm.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joss Naylor 1936 - Fell runnery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Peter Purves 1939 - Actor and TV presenter. Most famous as a presenter of </span><em><span class="tm8">Blue Peter</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mary Rand 1940 - Runny bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Hamish Imlach 1940 - Folky. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIXzgWwFqBo">a song for smokers.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Hampshire 1941 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael Apted 1941 - TV and film director. He directed such gems as </span><em><span class="tm8">Gorillas in the Mist</span></em><span class="tm9"> and </span><em><span class="tm8">The World Is Not Enough</span></em><span class="tm9">, but did you know he learned his trade on </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9"> back in 1967?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Clifford T. Ward 1944 - Singer/songwriter. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akKVtGUsbbY">Home Thoughts From Abroad.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael Keating 1947 - Actor. Vila Restal in </span><em><span class="tm8">Blake’s 7</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nicholas Owen 1947 - TV and radio presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jimmy Rimmer 1948 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nigel Olsson 1949 - Drummer. He has drummed for Elton John since 1971 and has played over 2000 concerts in that time. It sounds a lot but it averages out at around 40 per year; not
a bad way to make a living. He’s made a few solo records too. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOkRXH_9q7w">Say Goodbye to Hollywood.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Carol Royle 1954 - Actress. Laura Collins in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Cedar Tree</span></em><span class="tm9">. Ask your mum this time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Briony McRoberts 1957 - Actress. Sam Hagan in </span><em><span class="tm8">Take the High Road</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Billy Thomson 1958 - Fitba guy. Ex-Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael McKell 1959 - Actor. Dr. Nick West in </span><em><span class="tm8">Doctors</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Robert Addie 1960 - Actor. Mordred in </span><em><span class="tm8">Excalibur</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alan McInally 1963 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Philip Glenister 1963 - Actor. DCI Gene Hunt in </span><em><span class="tm8">Life on Mars</span></em><span class="tm9"> and </span><em><span class="tm8">Ashes to Ashes</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andrew Carthy aka Mr. Scruff 1972 - Record producer and DJ. Let’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2lgy4_Quko">get a move on.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Helen Willets 1972 - TV meteorologist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Claire Goose 1975 - Actress. Amelia Silver in </span><em><span class="tm8">Waking the Dead</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Keeley Hawes 1976 - Actress. Barbara Stonehouse in </span><em><span class="tm8">Stonehouse</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Hart 1980 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andrew Johnson 1981 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Barry Sloane 1981 - Actor. Chris Fischer in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Bay</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Holly Willoughby 1981 - TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Max Brown 1981 - Actor. Michael Summerton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Nolly</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Adam Armstrong 1997 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Mr. Grambluff,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I have always been a great fan of your music and have listened to everything you have recorded. Here’s a question for you. What was the very first track on your first album and
is its title suitable for a play on my name?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Unreally yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xthFChehvWw">C. Mammal.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Blorkdaes fare? We won... and lost. Again. Even worse than last time. 76 pees back from our £2.20 stake. Two pees down on our last gramble.
Dearie me. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Swansea vs Southampton - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Swansea 1 Southampton 3</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Che Adams put Southampton ahead from close range only six minutes in.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Will Smallbone tapped in the second goal before Swansea responded against the run of play through a Jamie Paterson header.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">But Southampton quickly re-established their control of the contest as Flynn Downes' 20-yard drive deflected into the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Swansea rallied in the closing stages as substitute Jerry Yates and Paterson both hit the woodwork, but their failure to take the late chances allowed Southampton to hold on for
three points with comfort.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Stoke vs Birmingham - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Stoke 1 Birmingham 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Jay Stansfield's fine one-on-one finish came after a strong Stoke opening and the hosts continued to dominate possession and pose a considerable threat against the Brummies.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">But although Blues keeper John Ruddy had to make a couple of fine saves, the Potters' finishing lacked precision and quality and they were made to pay soon after the restart
when Juninho Bacuna found the top corner from 25 yards.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Jordan Thompson pulled a goal back with 20 minutes remaining, the defender tapping the ball in at the far post from Wouter Burger's assist, but persistent pressure could not
help Stoke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Substitutes Tyrese Campbell and Nathan Lowe both spurned decent chances and Ryan Mmaee fired a shot over the bar, but Blues stood firm under the relentless pressure.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Plymouth vs Cardiff - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Plymouth 3 Cardiff 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Ryan Hardie scored twice as Plymouth Argyle came from behind to deservedly beat Cardiff City 3-1 at Home Park.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Hardie's double either side of half-time turned the game as he guided the ball home from close range and then powered a finish past Cardiff City goalkeeper Ben Alnwick.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Morgan Whittaker made the points safe as Hardie turned provider and Whittaker slammed the ball home emphatically.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Defender Perry Ng's close-range effort had put Cardiff ahead on 10 minutes.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackburn vs Huddersfield - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Blackburn 1 Huddersfield 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Defender Michal Helik scored to cancel out Adam Wharton's early opener for the Lancashire side.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Rovers got off to a great start courtesy of a gift from Terriers centre-back Jonathan Hogg, who gave the ball straight to Adam Wharton to finish expertly with seven minutes on
the clock.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The home side sought to drive home the advantage as Sam Gallagher saw a shot deflected into the side netting.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Huddersfield, however, took advantage. Rhys Healey tested Rovers goalkeeper Aynsley Pears and from the resulting Sorba Thomas corner Helik glanced his header into the far corner
of the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Gallagher appealed loudly for a penalty as he ran through onto a Sammie Szmodics pass and had his heels clipped, but it was the visitors who missed the best chance to grab all
three points as a swift counter-attack saw Josh Koroma run through and square for Jack Rudoni, who sliced his shot from five yards out.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Pears had to be sharp to deny Bojan Radulovic, David Kasumu dragged his shot wide after another counter had exposed Blackburn's leaking defence and then Helik almost bagged
another with a fine volley that looped across the box and narrowly past the far post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln vs Derby - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Lincoln 0 Derby 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar again!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Rams goalkeeper Josh Vickers produced a string of fine saves to deny the hosts a win.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Nathaniel Mendez-Laing came closest for Derby in the early stages as he fired into the side-netting.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Ethan Hamilton forced Vickers into a good save to tip his strike past the post while at the other end, Lukas Jensen did well to keep out James Collins' effort at the near post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Vickers again needed his wits about him to deny Reeco Hackett-Fairchild.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">After the break, the visitors were indebted to Eiran Cashin as he cleared Joe Taylor's effort off the line after Vickers got a touch on it.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Taylor was again thwarted by the inspired County keeper as the spoils were shared.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Hmm... Not so good. Can The Grambler come up with anything better, this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Luton vs Sheffield - Home win - 8/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Spurs vs Brighton - Home win - 3/4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Wolves vs Brentford - Home win - 21/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln vs Fleetwood - Home win - Evens</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackpool vs Oxford - Home win - 19/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm12 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #800180; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm18"></span><em><u><span class="tm19">£12.02</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">A bit more whopping than recent weeks.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm22">1. </span><span class="tm22">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Coventry in 1992. A striker, I began my senior career at Coventry City where I scored 22 goals in 49 appearances. In 2014, I moved to AFC Bournemouth, scoring 61 in 171
appearances. In 2020, I moved to my current club, Newcastle and have, so far, netted 45 times in 89 appearances. I have also been capped for England nine times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Callum Wilson</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which player was sold by Chelsea in 2019 for £89 million?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Eden Hazard</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which club lost the League Cup Final against Liverpool in 1983 and 2003?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Manchester United</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who is Leeds United’s all-time highest goalscorer?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Peter Lorimer (238)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which English club plays its home games at Gresty Road?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Crewe Alexandria (I wonder how many fans use it’s new sponsor-led name of Mornflake Stadium)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did you get on? Five out of five? Brilliant. How about five more for this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Redbridge, England in 1999. I am a right back and have been at Chelsea throughout my senior career, apart from a loan spell at Wigan Athletic. I have been capped for
England 16 times. A big clue to my identity is that I am currently Chelsea’s captain.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which current Premier League club beat the cup holders Arsenal in the League Cup Final of 1988?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Scot was named Middlesbrough player of the year in 2010 and 2012?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which Nigerian has made the most Premier League appearances?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club plays it’s home games at Sixfields Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it. Have fun trying to work that lot out. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your
pals so that they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9" style="color: #800180;"><i><u>£75,330</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am grateful to a Ms. J. Grenfell who provides us with this week’s final item. Joyce Grenfell was one of the first comedians I
knew as a child. At the age of four I laughed at her comedy nursery teacher telling George not to do that. At that age, I had no idea what George was doing to be continually told not to; I just found it hilarious. Still
do, over 60 years later (Yes, I am that old.). Any road up, it’s a month or two too late, but here is her take on a </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXNRoxPpCn0">nativity play.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm16">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-11298854338798045772024-01-20T10:04:00.000+00:002024-01-20T10:04:03.874+00:00Post 497 - A hair-raising gramble<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Those of you who are old enough to have lived through the 70s and 80s will probably remember the time when footballers began a trend that has persisted to this day. And what trend
is that, I hear you ask. The desire to look ridiculous, I answer. Sorry pardon excuse me? Let me explain. It was around that time, all those years ago that footballers eschewed the fashions of the time to pursue their
own ‘style’. Yes, at a time when teenagers and young men ceased to wear their hair long and took on the shorter-haired punk look, footballers kept their long locks. Not only that, they had their hair permed.
Yep, think of the style your bubble-bonced granny had; that was what footballers looked like. Without the wrinkles, of course. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Why did they adopt this style? Well, it was in vogue a little bit. Perhaps you remember the Brady Bunch where all the blokes had permed hair for some odd reason. The footy guys
can’t all have been fans of a cheesy ‘honey I’m home’ American sitcom, surely. No, the reason was money... and don’t call me Shirley. [It’s a while since you’ve done that old favourite.
- Ed.] Having your hair permed cost money. Lots of it. What did footballers have? Money, and lots of it. Why not spend some of this dosh on expensive (but daft-looking) hair-dos.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Since then, footballers have gone through various ‘stylish’ hairstyles. Generally, only a few guys went all out to look outrageous... think Taribo West, Paul Pogba
and Barry Venison... but most looked fairly average. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Of course, footballers found other ways to waste their hard-earned dosh; tattoos, for example. Why? I have no idea. However, lately, I have noted that crazy hairstyles have made
a serious comeback. Over the past five years, it seemed that huge Brian Blessed type beards were footballers’ means of expressing ‘style’ and looking silly, but now daft hairstyles are back. Yay!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">We have the wide Mohican style which, to me, resembles a slightly small forage cap perched on the head. It is popular, certainly, but not particularly odd-looking. No, the crazy
footballer fashion of the moment is the desire to have the hair braided. Now, to me, anyone over the age of 12 should not have their hair braided. Even then, only girls aged 12 or less should adopt such a style. Boys?
Most definitely not.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">So why do footballers now want to look like girls aged less than 12? Money. Again. Having hair braided is a time-consuming, expensive business. Obviously, the footy blokes who
are adopting this ridiculous look have no space left for tattoos, so who else can they throw armfuls of money at? Hairdressers... well, hair braiders.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps they think they are being ‘individual’. The trouble seems to be that every footballer and his brother now want to have braided hair. [I thought you said some
had a forage cap. - Ed.] Point taken. But where is any individuality they might crave? Forget it. Take a look in the mirror. You’ve all got the same hairstyle. [Unless they have that other style. - Ed.] All right,
you’ve made your point.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, braided hair looks pretty daft in itself, but the daftest of the lot had to be one particular, high-profile, player (his name sounds a bit like Straheem Rerling) whose hair
wasn’t quite long enough to be braided. What did he do? He came on to the field of play with... what are those? Surely not. He’s got bloody hair grips in. What a tw*t!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Not everyone has hair that can be braided and perhaps doesn’t want a wide mohican mop. There is still room for the occasional curve-ball hairdo. Remember Ronaldo back in
2002? He looked as if he had started to shave his head and forgot the bit at the front. And do you know what? It was deliberate. He thought, I’ll give the lads at training a bit of a laugh. Unfortunately, he was
photographed with his half-finished hairdo and his image went viral. Before he could tell the world it was only a joke, thousands of Brazilian kids, who idolised him, had adopted his ‘new look’. He felt obliged
to keep the silly hairdo, if only to appease those kids and, presumably, the parents who had been inveigled into letting them follow the style of their football hero.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, we have a new crazy haircut guy... Witness, a certain Manchester United player who has obviously based his look on that of a certain 1970s piano-playing singer songwriter.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm12 tm7"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOH75nKeX1yjFbFGkrH2IVKQQw2zoKs24R3x8yoe94A83T9k7Yqpyd2lHT9Y1BkaBksU3JrQOcNlaQMNsyn3sB8YQv0Xom_Kc5bcThIF9m3a45pK6So6kzFz1bqNhSoDvs7Tr-8ooNRtJK8ADWayydRNh_PyxaY1fX0xVfnJLlWH3Hsll5pJkjbRA5IU/s279/Gilbert-O-Sullivan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="211" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOH75nKeX1yjFbFGkrH2IVKQQw2zoKs24R3x8yoe94A83T9k7Yqpyd2lHT9Y1BkaBksU3JrQOcNlaQMNsyn3sB8YQv0Xom_Kc5bcThIF9m3a45pK6So6kzFz1bqNhSoDvs7Tr-8ooNRtJK8ADWayydRNh_PyxaY1fX0xVfnJLlWH3Hsll5pJkjbRA5IU/w233-h308/Gilbert-O-Sullivan.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Alejandro Garnacho</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaCnikHmt7fFqMb11d4vVJ5FJdAHKKS84wLm_g79dTcrJrVJWjknHvCaneZUIz6P3eRUSr5PKxs82fQvzilrQi_e6-2_gTtKRovVCD-mGOEj21KKXvbGS2X4fFLzkrazr14HVstUawQRoPqd7eCLCjPqtUR3R5rED5ngk_MV2MNRn1Mll4aZXvMHSCqgg/s608/Garnacho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaCnikHmt7fFqMb11d4vVJ5FJdAHKKS84wLm_g79dTcrJrVJWjknHvCaneZUIz6P3eRUSr5PKxs82fQvzilrQi_e6-2_gTtKRovVCD-mGOEj21KKXvbGS2X4fFLzkrazr14HVstUawQRoPqd7eCLCjPqtUR3R5rED5ngk_MV2MNRn1Mll4aZXvMHSCqgg/s320/Garnacho.jpg" width="237" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Gilbert O'Sullivan</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">To be continued...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 13th of January? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alfred Yarrow 1842 - Industrialist who began Yarrow Shipbuilders.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Richard Addinsell 1904 - Composer. Here’s a piece you will perhaps recognise; it was written for the 1941 film </span><em><span class="tm8">Dangerous Moonlight</span></em><span class="tm9"> and goes by the title </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eg0QEpXYmUw">Warsaw Concerto.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ted Willis 1918 - Screenwriter. Best known for writing the BBC police series </span><em><span class="tm8">Dixon of Dock Green</span></em><span class="tm9">. Mind how you go. Ask your grandad.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Allan Prior 1922 - Screenwriter. Best known for writing the BBC police series </span><em><span class="tm8">Z Cars</span></em><span class="tm9">. Hang on a mo...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Hewer 1922 - Actor. Never heard of him? He was best known for sailing a ship crewed by young children and paying them only with fish fingers. Called himself Captain Birdseye.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jack Watling 1923 - Actor. Don Henderson in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Power Game</span></em><span class="tm9">. Ask your grandad again</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ron Tauranac 1925 - Engineer and racing car designer. Co-founded the Brabham constructor team with Jack.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Bond 1926 - Writer. Creator of Paddington Bear.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Hendry 1931 - Actor. Dr. David Keel in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Avengers</span></em><span class="tm9">. Ask the old’un again.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Carol Cleveland 1942 - Actress. Famous for being the only female member of the Monty Python team.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Lees 1947 - Musician who formed the band Barclay James Harvest back in 1966. The band is still active. Actually, that’s not strictly true. The two surviving members, Lees
and Les Holroyd, have parted company, but both still tour with bands using the BJH name. In the red corner, we have John Lees’ Barclay James Harvest and in the blue corner, we have Barclay James Harvest featuring Les
Holroyd. I’m guessing the two don’t get on these days. Anyway, history lesson over; let’s have a clip. Here’s their ‘tribute’ to the Beatles called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRS10BeQOz0">Titles.</a> I'm guessing that was written with tongue firmly in cheek.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Malcolm Storry 1948 - Actor. ‘Dogfood’ Dan Milton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Dogfood Dan and the Carmarthen Cowboy</span></em><span class="tm9">. Er... It was a sitcom about lorry drivers in the days of C. B. radio. Doesn’t make much sense as a title nowadays.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alex Brychta 1956 - Who? He is an illustrator famous for the Oxford Reading Tree series of books featuring the characters Biff, Chip and Kipper. Apparently, this learn-to-read series
is used in 80% of British primary schools.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mike Bullen 1960 - Screenwriter. </span><em><span class="tm8">Cold Feet</span></em><span class="tm9">, that was his biggie.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Graham McPherson aka Suggs 1961 - Singer/songwriter. Famous as being frontman with the Band, Madness. Here’s his solo number 6</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MReDjx1FIaE"><span class="tm9">,</span></a><span class="tm9"> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nlj-9ftgnvA">Cecilia.</a> Yes, that was Chris Eubank, the well-known boxy bloke, introducing him.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark ‘Bill’ Bailey 1965 - Comedian, musician and actor.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tom Bradby 1967 - TV journalist and newsreader.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stephen Hendry 1969 - Snookery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Orlando Bloom 1977 - Actor. Will Turner in the various Pirates of the Caribbean films.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">William Ash 1977 - Actor. Caleb Miligan in </span><em><span class="tm8">Emmerdale</span></em><span class="tm9">. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Katy Brand 1979 - Comedienne, actress and writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Des Clarke 1981 - Comedian and radio presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ruth Wilson 1982 - Actress. Alison Bailey in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Affair</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Matt Stokoe 1989 - Actor. Raoul Moat in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Hunt for Raoul Moat</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now then, what about the 20th of January? Anyone famous born on that day? Let’s have a look...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Henry Cromwell 1628 - Lord Deputy of Ireland. Ollie’s lad.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Finlay Currie 1878 - Actor. Magwitch in </span><em><span class="tm8">Great Expectations</span></em><span class="tm9"> (1946).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tudor Owen 1898 - Actor. He was in all sorts of things in the fifties and early sixties, but I remember him as a voice artist. Yep. He was Towser in </span><em><span class="tm8">101 Dalmations</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Clarice Cliff 1899 - Potter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Colin Clive 1900 - Actor. Henry Frankenstein in </span><em><span class="tm8">Frankenstein</span></em><span class="tm9"> (1931) and </span><em><span class="tm8">Bride of Frankenstein</span></em><span class="tm9"> (1935).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Fabia Drake 1904 - Actress. Countess of Midlothian in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Pallisers</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joy Adamson 1910 - Naturalist. She wrote Born Free which was made into the film of the same name.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Roy Plomley 1914 - Radio broadcaster. He is credited with creating Desert Island Discs, a radio programme that has been running since 1942. In that time it has had only five presenters;
Plomley running the show from its inception until 1985. He might have carried on, but his death intervened.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span><span class="tm9" style="font-size: large;">Tony Shryane 1919 - Radio producer... He produced</span><span class="tm9" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span class="tm9" style="font-size: medium;">programmes,</span><span class="tm9" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span class="tm15">not</span><span class="tm9" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">radios</span><span class="tm9" style="font-size: large;">... I’ll get me coat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dick Hern 1921 - Race-horse trainer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Graham Stark 1922 - Comedian, actor, writer and director.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Henry Woolf 1930 - Actor. I recall him from </span><em><span class="tm8">Rutland Weekend Television</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Richard Coleman 1930 - Actor. David Redway in </span><em><span class="tm8">...And Mother Makes Five</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gerry Monroe 1933 - Singer. He tended to take old classic songs and, quite frankly, murder them. Here’s an example, the old Gracie Fields classic, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3C8W6MsDHbU">Sally.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tom Baker 1934 - The Doctor.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Frances Shand Kydd 1936 - Princess Diana’s mam.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Neville Buswell 1943 - Actor. Ray Langton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Eric Stewart 1945 - Musician. A quarter of 10CC [Two and a half CC, then. - Ed.] A clip? But of course. Here’s the biggie, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgJckGsR-T0">I'm Not In Love.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Christopher Martin-Jenkins 1945 - Cricket commentatory bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Liza Goddard 1950 - Actress. Victoria in </span><em><span class="tm8">Take Three Girls</span></em><span class="tm9">. It had this rather nice theme song from Pentangle called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itjFfz079f8">Light Flight.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Hill 1951 - Musician. He is the longest-serving member of Judas Priest having been there at the start back in 1969. He’s been playing bass with them for 55 years for goodness
sake! Would you like a clip? Of course you would. Here’s a song that reached number four in the U.S. of A. but didn’t even get into the Yuk top 40, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coA75uoMF40">You've Got Another Thing Comin'.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Robertson 1953 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Janey Godley 1961 - Comedienne.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris England 1961 - Writer and actor. He co-wrote </span><em><span class="tm8">An Evening with Gary Lineker</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Sophie Thompson 1962 - Actress. Sheila Seymour in </span><em><span class="tm8">Detectorists</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sophie, Countess of Wessex 1965 - The well-known royal bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Heather Small 1965 - Singer with a very distinctive voice. Here she is with M People getting a bit </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eH08P3OL78">Excited.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Colin Calderwood 1965 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nicky Wire 1969 - Musician. Bassist with Manic Street Preachers, but here is a solo track called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=401ldfS1GFM">I Killed the Zeitgeist.</a> [Ooh, I like that one. Bob Marley... I killed the zeitgeist, but I did not shoot the deputy... - Ed.] No, not that one.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mitch Benn 1970 - Musician and comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gary Barlow 1971 - Singer and songwriter most notably with Take That. Shall we have a clip? Yes, why in heaven’s name not. Here’s a newish track, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJftIXiPCQ8">Windows.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Zac Goldsmith 1975 - Politician and journalist, apparently.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Joel Pott 1979 - Musician and songwriter. Frontman for Indie band Athlete but nowadays is better known for his songwriting; for George Ezra among others. Let’s have a jolly toon
from his Athlete days. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qb_K36gBUmQ">El Salvador.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Will Young 1979 - Singer, songwriter and actor. Here’s a recent song, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D14mpT6KBaU">Why Does It Hurt.</a> Probably because you won't stop picking at it.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Owen Hargreaves 1981 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Joe Swash 1982 - Actor. Mickey Miller in </span><em><span class="tm8">Eastenders</span></em><span class="tm9"> you slaaaag!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark Wright 1987 - TV personality it says here.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul Hanlon 1990 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tom Cairney 1991 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Eric Gramblart,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh, it was so lovely to hear your lovely song about not being in love. I do recall that your lovely group had a lovely record that reached number before that one, but I can’t
remember. It would be lovely if you could remind me.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours lovely-ly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tqSIpr0T0w">Rob R. Bullits.</a></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;">PS. - That was some of the worst miming I've ever seen.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Borkdales go? We won... and lost. Again. Even worse than last time. 78 pees back from our £2.20 stake. A whole £1.42 down. Oh dear oh
dear. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Cheltenham vs Portsmouth - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Cheltenham 2 Portsmouth 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Oh dear. Bad start.</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Portsmouth were on top for much of the first half, with Abu Kamara a major threat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">But they failed to seriously test goalkeeper Luke Southwood, who made comfortable saves from Sean Raggett and Marlon Pack.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Kamara had the ball in the net before half-time but the whistle had already been blown for a foul on him and it was ruled out.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Paddy Lane's cross was helped on by Raggett and Tom Bradbury deflected it into his own net under pressure from Colby Bishop to put Pompey ahead.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Portsmouth led for less than two minutes, with Will Ferry's long throw-in hooked in by Liam Sercombe in the 51st minute.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The winner came when George Lloyd dispossessed Conor Shaughnessy in the 54th minute, allowing Sercombe to smash into the roof of the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Exeter vs Carlisle - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Exeter 2 Carlisle 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #04ff00; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts gave a debut to Luke Harris and he twice went close in the first five minutes, while Jordan Gibson was high with a long-range effort for Carlisle.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The best chance of a tame first half fell to Carlisle's Josh Emmanuel, but with only Vili Sinisalo to beat, Zak Jules got back to make an outstanding goal-saving block.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">After the break, Exeter's Jack Aitchison saw a shot spilled by Gabe Breeze, but Sonny Cox could not finish off the rebound.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">However, the Grecians finally got the goal their play deserved after 57 minutes when Harris' cross fell kindly for Reece Cole and he smashed the ball in from 12 yards.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">City were on top now and the second goal duly arrived in the 77th minute when Aitchison's shot struck the base of the post and Cox reacted quickest to turn in the loose ball.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Luke Armstrong hit the post from close range for Carlisle before Dan Butterworth smashed in from 20 yards to give the Cumbrians hope, but despite nine minutes of added time, the
Grecians held firm for the win.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Barrow vs Tranmere - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Barrow 1 Tranmere 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #04ff00; font-size: large;">Yay again!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Barrow’s Elliot Newby laid off a ball for midfielder Dean Campbell to curl the ball left-footed into the top corner from 18 yards out.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Barrow, however, suffered a later scare before the three points were confirmed when Josh Hawkes struck an upright with a stoppage-time effort.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">However, they survived and had a last-minute Kian Spence effort disallowed for offside.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Bradford vs Crawley - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Bradford 2 Crawley 4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Oh dear, oh dear</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Crawley scored twice in stoppage time to clinch a dramatic 4-2 win at Bradford.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors had been trailing 2-1 before Adam Campbell's 85th-minute equaliser.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">They went on to complete a remarkable comeback as Danilo Orsi scored his second goal of the game from the penalty spot after Nick Tsaroulla was tripped by Jon Tomkinson.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Then substitute Klaidi Lolos made it a six-goal thriller with a well-struck finish into the top corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Orsi had nodded Crawley ahead after 12 minutes from Tsaroulla's cross.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Corey Addai made a good save in a one-on-one with Tyler Smith to preserve their lead at half-time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">But Bradford's increasing pressure after the break was rewarded when Liam Ridehalgh scored with a chipped cross that floated in at the back post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The home side then went in front when Addai looked to have saved Andy Cook's penalty but, with Cook steaming in to score the rebound, contrived to push the ball into his own
net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">But Campbell equalised from Harry Ransom's cross before the double strike in time added on secured the win for Crawley.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon vs Colchester - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Swindon 2 Colchester 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ouch! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Bradley Ihionvien snatched a stoppage-time equaliser to rescue a point for Colchester as they came from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 at Swindon.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon were awarded a penalty after just 17 minutes when Udoka Godwin-Malife was hauled to the ground in the box and Charlie Austin stepped up and blasted his shot down the middle.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon grabbed their second goal before the break as Austin's header went into the path of Tom Brewitt, who smashed the ball into the roof of the net from one yard out.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Matt Jay pulled Colchester back into the game in first-half stoppage time when he met a near-post cross and flicked it into the far corner of the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Three minutes after the break, Jay fired a low effort beyond Lewis Ward, but Liam Kinsella blocked the shot on the line.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">With almost the last kick of the game, Ward fluffed a punch and allowed Ihionvien to turn home and salvage a draw for the visitors and leave the home fans and The Grambler furious.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Right, come on Grambler, give us some decent predictions...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Swansea vs Southampton - Away win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Stoke vs Birmingham - Home win - 20/21</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Plymouth vs Cardiff - Home win - 5/4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackburn vs Huddersfield - Home win - 3/4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln vs Derby - Away win - 7/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">I don’t feel confident. I do not. Nevertheless, the bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler,
the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm12 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #ff00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm19"></span><em><u><span class="tm20">£11.26</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Average whoppingness, there.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm23">1. </span><span class="tm23">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1998. A midfielder, I began my senior career at Vasco da Gama before signing for Manchester City on a five-year contract, but never played a game for
them. I was loaned out to Girona supposedly for one season, but the loan spell was continued because the UK Home Office denied me a work permit. I signed to my current club Aston Villa in 2019 and finally received my work
permit.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Douglas Luiz Soares de Paulo, but you can call him Douglas Luiz</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. The UEFA European Championship began in 1960; which four nations took part?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Czechoslovakia, France, Soviet Union and Yugoslavia</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which recently retired football manager has coached the following clubs - Gainsburgh Trinity, Burton Albion, Scarborough, Notts County, Torquay United, Huddersfield Town (twice),
Plymouth Argyle, Oldham Athletic, Bury, Sheffield United, Crystal Palace (twice), QPR (twice but caretaker manager on the second occasion), Leeds United, Rotherham United, Cardiff City and Middlesbrough?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Neil Warnock</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the New York Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Rotherham United. For sponsorship purposes it is also known as the AESSEAL New York Stadium.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club lost the FA Cup Final against Chelsea in both 2007 and 2018?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Manchester United</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Shall we have five for this week? Yes, why not.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Coventry in 1992. A striker, I began my senior career at Coventry City where I scored 22 goals in 49 appearances. In 2014, I moved to AFC Bournemouth, scoring 61 in 171
appearances. In 2020, I moved to my current club, Newcastle and have, so far, netted 45 times in 89 appearances. I have also been capped for England nine times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which player was sold by Chelsea in 2019 for £89 million?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which club lost the League Cup Final against Liverpool in 1983 and 2003?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who is Leeds United’s all-time highest goalscorer?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which English club plays its home games at Gresty Road?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it. Have fun trying to work that lot out. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your
pals so that they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9" style="color: #ff00fe;"><i><u>£75,330</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm18">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am grateful to a Mr. B. (or is it M?) Bailey. I have enjoyed Bill Bailey’s style of comedy since I first saw him on his own BBC
Scotland show, </span><em><span class="tm24">Is It Bill Bailey?</span></em><span class="tm18"> back in 1998. It was surreal and different. Who else mixed music and comedy in the same way? Victor Borge, maybe? So, to finish
this week, let’s have a selection of </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cQhLII5BgY">Bill's comedy.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm18"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm18">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-31400865584468191882024-01-06T10:53:00.000+00:002024-01-06T10:53:30.459+00:00Post 496 - Happy New Gramble<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">As we have come to the end of the 365 days known as 2023 and we look forward to the 366 days it has been decreed shall be known as 2024, it is natural to look back on that thing
we call a year and consider some highs and lows, but mainly lows. Let’s face it, the past year has not been one of mankind’s best efforts what with wars taking place and refugees still risking their lives by trying
to cross the English Channel on li-los.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I also note that nature is fighting back more than ever. 2023 ranks as having the highest global temperatures since records began, thanks to the stupidity of us humans. Greenhouse
gas levels have also hit a record high, sea levels are at their highest and Antarctic sea ice is at a record low. I’m guessing that those last two go hand in hand. Well done, mankind.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">So how is Mother Earth fighting back? By giving us wildfires, torrential rain, typhoons, hurricanes... I could go on, but I think you get the picture.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A lot of world leaders headed to Dubai recently to discuss a way to eradicate some of the Earth’s troubles. You know the sort of thing - don’t use coal; don’t
use oil; don’t use gas. All very laudable. However, many of these dignitaries arrived on private jet planes, thereby exacerbating the problem. It’s all talk. I hope they all celebrated their perspicacity (That’s
a good word; wonder what it means.) at putting an end to global warming in a suitably ‘green’ way. [Perhaps by taking those same private planes to some exotic holiday resort because they need a well-earned rest
after sorting out such matters? - Ed.] </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Okay, cynicism aside, this week’s story time runs the risk of getting a bit despondent, but worse is to come. Sadly, in 2023 we lost many that we
hold dear and I’m not just talking about people. I mean things. Well, things that I hold dear; maybe you don't. We have lost a certain fizzy soft drink. The one with the totally tropical taste. Yep, Lilt is no more.
Another loss due to the world and his brother preferring the taste of a carbonated drink that was originally marketed as a patent medicine. You know the one. You do. The one with the name that, to me at least, stands for world
domination. I don’t agree with the world and his brother; I think it tastes horrible.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Wait. There’s more. Oh yes. There has been, throughout my life, an alternative to a bar of chocolate which I have always absolutely loved... even
after the sweet manufacturer with the cuddly name bought the company that produced it and messed about with the recipe. No, I'm not talking about Milky Bar, I'm talking about another product from the same company and
that product is, or was, Caramac. Mmmm... Excuse me, I've just dribbled down my shirt.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Yes Caramac; it was first sold in 1959 and had the texture of chocolate, but the taste of caramel. What's not to like, as you like to say over in the
good ol' US of A. Why the name Caramac, I hear you ask. Well, it was produced by the company that gave us the best caramel-based products ever produced (well, I thought so), Mackintosh's. So 'cara' from caramel
and 'mac' from mackintosh's. See? Caramac. Educational, this is.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Any road up, Mackintosh's merged with Rowntree in 1969 to become Rowntree-Mackintosh (without the apostrophe s) and so began the sad decline of the
utterly brilliant Caramac. Why? Because that was when the recipe started to get fu... mucked up. The original's smoothness seemed to go, to be replaced by something with a slightly gritty texture.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">In 1987, more changes were afoot as Rowntree-Mackintosh was itself eaten up (geddit?) by that manufacturer with the cuddly name. The Caramac recipe seemed
to get messed up yet again. Why does that always have to happen? Answers on a postcard, please.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Since that time, sales have declined and now the plug has been pulled completely.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Was the decline due solely to changes in the recipe putting people off? That may have had something to do with it, but I think the main reason for the poor
sales is that there is a new kid on the block. [A Milky Bar kid! Ha! - Ed.] Don't be silly and, anyway, it's a caramel/chocolate bar I'm talking about. It is made by that competitor to cuddly brand, Badcury (itself
a company that has been swallowed up by a big conglomerate).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">And do you know what? It may be a little on the sickly side, but it's not too far removed from the original un-mucked-about-with Caramac. It's damn
near perfect and, no, I don't receive any freebies for promoting this product.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Mind you, if anyone from Badcury is reading this, I would be more than happy to take a few bars off your hands if you are feeling generous... Oh dear I'm
dribbling again. [I think you mean drivelling. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 30th of December? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Rudyard Kipling 1865 - Writer with unfeasably bushy eyebrows.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3DTkkXVERkHvMnxGPWNhvpZFRxvsPCqzxRRbNOxun1SDKlds1dohBavApxS9xDH1tDM7m9gcbpWRmSpBoT6W18oIJzgS8TeVnnBgy6oEQy5-3S1Y6cntd6yGkqtXNkEZYC3VY4AA4I9cx82pulrAyNByguvWySsfPWF88zuRzEf4ej44PRqtcUUtUlQ/s941/rudyard%20kipling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="941" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3DTkkXVERkHvMnxGPWNhvpZFRxvsPCqzxRRbNOxun1SDKlds1dohBavApxS9xDH1tDM7m9gcbpWRmSpBoT6W18oIJzgS8TeVnnBgy6oEQy5-3S1Y6cntd6yGkqtXNkEZYC3VY4AA4I9cx82pulrAyNByguvWySsfPWF88zuRzEf4ej44PRqtcUUtUlQ/s320/rudyard%20kipling.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Why the bushy eyebrows? </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I save a fortune on paintbrushes.</span></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stephen Leacock 1869 - Writer and humourist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Carol Reed 1906 - Film director. </span><em><span class="tm8">Oliver!</span></em><span class="tm9"> was one of his. [His? With a name like Carol? What were his parents thinking of? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian MacNaughton 1925 - Producer and director. </span><em><span class="tm8">Monty Python’s Flying Circus</span></em><span class="tm9"> was one of his.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Stan Tracey 1926 - Musician. Shall we have a bit of jehhhzzz? Why not. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haFemWYLm14">Starless and Bible Black.</a> Nice.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andy Stewart 1933 - Singer/songwriter. His biggest hit was Donald, Where’s yer Troosers, but you don’t want to hear that. Here he is explaining the story behind </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ciCMsiPTbQ">Campbelltown Loch I Wish You Were Whisky.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Frederick Pyne 1936 - Actor. Matt Skilbeck in </span><em><span class="tm8">Emmerdale Farm</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gordon Banks 1937 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Glyn Dearman 1939 - Actor. Tiny Tim in </span><em><span class="tm8">Scrooge</span></em><span class="tm9"> (1951).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Davy Jones 1945 - A right little Monkee. Have a clip. He was lead-vocalist on this, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvqeSJlgaNk">Daydream Believer.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Clive Bunker 1946 - Musician. Ex-Jethro Tull drummer. For once, I’m not giving you a Jethro Tull clip, but it is a Jethro Tull tune and there is the bonus of Clive giving it laldy on the
drums. Here’s Jethro Tull tribute act Beggar's Farm featuring Tull originals Clive Bunker and Glen Cornick with </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UkTatOc7qkk">Nothing is Easy.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Bedford 1949 - Runny bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Barbara Kellerman 1949 - Actress. The White Witch in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dave Stewart 1950 - Keyboardist and composer. He has had a few hits with singer Barbara Gaskin, but here he is with Colin Blunstone on vocals giving us the old Jimmy Ruffin classic,
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=re1qLsd_qtw">What Becomes of the Broken Hearted.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nick Skelton 1957 - Horsey bloke... I mean he rides horses, he doesn’t</span></span><span class="tm9" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: medium;">look</span></span><span class="tm9" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="tm16">like</span><span class="tm9"> </span>a</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">horse</span><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">... I’ll get me coat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tracey Ullman 1959 - </span><span class="tm17">Actress, comedian, singer, writer, producer and director</span><span class="tm9">. In fact, a right old smarty boots. She had a few hit singles back in the day. Here’s the one that reached the heady heights of number 2 in the UK charts, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9un119lq4c">They Don't Know.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Morris Gould aka Mixmaster Morris 1960 - Electronica DJ. Let’s chill out, shall we? Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVzqHmfR2ro">Spiritual High.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Sophie Ward 1964 - Actress. Lady Ellen Hoxley in </span><em><span class="tm8">Land Girls</span></em><span class="tm9">. Simon’s lass.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Duglas T. Stewart 1964 - Frontman of BMX Bandits. A clip? But of course. Here’s some </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcsHm2hwTUE">Serious Drugs.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Aamer Anwar 1967 - High-profile Scottish lawyer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jason Cheetham aka Jay Kay aka The Cat in the Hat 1969 - Frontman of Jamiroquai. I think a clip is in order. Let’s have this one from 2017, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmlmOk4ubcU">Automaton.</a> Best hat yet, Jay.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Phillips Idowu 1978 - Triple jumpy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Craig Powell 1984 - Musician. One time singer with Uniting Nations. Let’s have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGk86h7PEck">You and Me.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Faye Marsay 1986 - Actress. Annie Roberts in </span><em><span class="tm8">Ten Pound Poms</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ellie Goulding 1986 - Singer/songwriter. A clip? Here’s a belated Christmas song </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8IoUoH3-EE">River.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Kirsty Leigh-Porter 1988 - Actress. Leela in </span><em><span class="tm8">Hollyoaks</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Leon Jackson 1988 - Singer. He won the fourth series of </span><em><span class="tm8">The X Factor</span></em><span class="tm9"> and followed it up with a number one record. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edqjiQdscpc">When You Believe.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joe Root 1990 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ryan Tunnicliffe 1992 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ollie Watkins 1995 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Louis Greatorex 1996 - Actor. Lawrence in </span><em><span class="tm8">Last Tango in Halifax</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now then, let’s move on to the 6th of January; I’m sure there were a few famous folk born on that day.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Thomas Dewar 1864 - Whisky distiller.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Cameron Hall 1897 - Jobbing actor. A regular, recognisable face on film and TV often playing unnamed characters. His final film role was ‘the admiral’ in </span><em><span class="tm8">Rotten to the Core</span></em><span class="tm9">. 158 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Francis L. Sullivan 1903 - Actor. Mr Bumble in </span><em><span class="tm8">Oliver Twist</span></em><span class="tm9"> (1948).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jean Sutherland 1907 - Artist and photographer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Doris Stokes 1920 - Medium.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">P. J. Kavanagh 1931 - Poet and actor. Father Seamus Fitzpatrick in </span><em><span class="tm8">Father Ted</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Clive 1933 - Actor. Cyfartha in </span><em><span class="tm8">How Green Was My Valley</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Sylvia Syms 1934 - Actress. Delia Pinner in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Punch and Judy Man</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Byrne 1940 - Playwright, screenwriter, artist and designer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Terry Venables 1943 - Footy bloke,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Barry John 1945 - </span><span class="tm9">Chwaraewr rygbi.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Syd Barrett 1946 - Musician. Founding member of Pink Floyd. He stayed for less than three years; his departure more due to his mental health issues rather than a desire to leave the
band. Here’s bit of psychedelia for you, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VE427jo4o2Y">Lucifer Sam.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Sandy Denny 1947 - Singer songwriter. Here’s a clip (with a little biography), </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeZL2FXkGqI">Who Knows Where the Time Goes.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Willie Carr 1950 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Malcolm Young 1953 - Musician. Guitarist with AC/DC. A clip? Of course. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lqdErI9uss">Moneytalks.</a> The words are there so you can sing along if you want [That’s more than the vocalist is doing... Call that singing! - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Paul Mayhew-Archer 1953 - Writer, producer, script editor and sometime actor. He wrote </span><em><span class="tm8">My Hero</span></em><span class="tm9"> and is the co-writer of </span><em><span class="tm8">The Vicar of Dibley</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Anthony Minghella 1954 - Film director, playwright and screenwriter. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Sparkes 1954 - Comedian. He became famous as Siadwel on </span><em><span class="tm8">Naked Video</span></em><span class="tm9">, but is nowadays known for his voiceover work on many children’s TV shows... Did you realise he voices the farmer and Bitzer the dog on </span><em><span class="tm8">Shaun the Sheep</span></em><span class="tm9">? No? Well, he does.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Rowan Atkinson 1955 - Actor, comedian and writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Arthur Bostrom 1955 - Actor. Officer Crabtree in </span><em><span class="tm8">’Allo ’Allo!</span></em></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Angus Deayton 1956 - TV presenter, actor and writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Clive Woodward 1956 - Rugby bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Justin Welby 1956 - Archbishop.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nigella Lawson 1960 - Dinner lady.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Fergal Keane 1961 - Journalist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">James O’Toole 1964 - Musician. Founding member of Frankie Goes To Hollywood. A clip? Why not. Here are two, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPGA9as_-G4">Wish (The Lads Were Here) + War.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nathan Connolly 1981 - Musician. Guitarist with Snow Patrol. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vW1hv37imjw">Just Say Yes.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Eddie Redmayne 1982 - Actor. He played Stephen Hawking in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Theory of Everything</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alex Turner 1986 - Musician. Frontman of Arctic Monkeys. Let’s have another clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zgEObNc_-k">Body Paint.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andy Carroll 1989 - Foo’y blurk.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Alex Gramblner,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was lovely to hear a fairly recent song from your band Arctic Monkeys. I wonder, do you have any songs in your repertoire that lend themselves to being confused with somebody’s
name?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nominally yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQH8ZTgna3Q">R. U. Mine.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Blorkdaes fare? We won... and lost. Again. £1.78 back from our £2.20 stake. 42 pees down. Oh dear. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Fulham vs Burnley - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Fulham 0 Burnley 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Boo!</span> But well done to Burnley on achieving a rare win.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Winger Wilson Odobert curled the ball home in style two minutes into the second half to put the Clarets ahead.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Sander Berge then arrowed in a second for Burnley with a low strike into the corner of the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Fulham were left to rue missed chances as Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford kept the home side at bay.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Tottenham vs Everton - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Spurs 2 Everton 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="color: #04ff00; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Richarlison put the hosts ahead after just nine minutes, slotting in Brennan Johnson's low cross at the near post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Son doubled Spurs' advantage soon after, with Johnson again providing a key supporting role. He picked the ball up from a short corner and fired in a powerful drive which
Everton keeper Jordan Pickford palmed away.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">It fell to Son, who slid the ball home with Pickford caught in a crowd of players and unable to intervene.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Everton showed plenty of attacking intent in an entertaining match and Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored five minutes after half-time - only for the video assistant referee to disallow
the goal following a foul by Andre Gomes on Emerson Royal in the build-up.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Gomes made some amends with a fine volleyed strike on 82 minutes to set up a grandstand finish, but Spurs held on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Sunderland vs Coventry - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Sunderland 0 Coventry 3</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo! In fact, blimey!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Abdoullah Ba should have put the home side in front, blazing over from close range after Brad Collins parried Jack Clarke's drive.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">At the other end, Anthony Patterson produced a superb double block to foil Haji Wright and Callum O'Hare in quick succession - but the keeper was helpless to prevent the Sky
Blues taking the lead just before the break.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Referee Matt Donohue allowed play to continue after Wright was brought down, with O'Hare galloping clear to send over a cross that Sunderland failed to clear and Tatsuhiro
Sakamoto capitalised at the far post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The home side started the second period strongly, with Jobe Bellingham and Jack Clarke both failing to make the most of opportunities and Trai Hume's attempt was charged down
by Jamie Allen.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">But Sunderland were hit on the counter-attack when O'Hare exchanged passes with Wright and curled a confident finish beyond Patterson to make it 2-0.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The contest was all but ended three minutes later as Kasey Palmer - who had only just come off the bench - wriggled free and the midfielder converted an easy tap-in after his initial
attempt was spilled by Patterson.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">QPR vs Southampton - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - QPR 0 Southampton 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="color: #04ff00; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">QPR looked the more threatening of the sides during the opening 45 minutes, with Ilias Chair's bold attempt from the halfway line giving Saints goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu a scare
before it sailed just over.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Chair did force Bazunu into a save later in the half, as well as setting up Andre Dozzell for a shot that was scrambled clear - but it was the visitors who opened the scoring just
prior to the interval.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Ryan Manning came off the bench to deliver a free-kick into the box and Adam Armstrong glanced it towards the far post where Taylor Harwood-Bellis fired in his second goal of the
season.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The home side responded well after the break, with Chris Willock unleashing a thumping drive to test Bazunu once again and Kenneth Paal's attempt whistling over the bar.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">At the other end, Saints substitute Che Adams might have increased the visitors' advantage, but he was foiled by Asmir Begovic.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">QPR's hopes were raised again two minutes from time when Shay Charles' foul on Albert Adomah earned him a second yellow card.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">However, Saints' 10 men survived added time to wrap up the points.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackpool vs Bristol Rovers - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Blackpool 3 Bristol Rovers 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="color: #04ff00; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">First-half goals from Tangerines man Ollie Norburn and Rovers forward John Marquis saw the sides go in level at the break, before Blackpool strikers Jake Beesley and Jordan Rhodes
struck in the second half.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts drew first-blood thanks to a 30-yard screamer from Norburn that flew into the top corner after 21 minutes.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Rovers equalised shortly after courtesy of Marquis, who was alive inside the area to tap in from close range.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Karamoko Dembele struck a free-kick against the crossbar with Blackpool pushing hard to get back in front before half-time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">They did just that after the interval when Dembele set up Beesley in the first minute of the second half.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Luke Thomas had one ruled out for offside and Dan Grimshaw saved from Aaron Collins as Rovers went in search of an equaliser.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Beesley then made way for Kyle Joseph, who came on and grabbed an assist, setting up Rhodes to steer into the goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">What has The Grambler come up with this to infuriate all you punters out there in Gramblerland?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Cheltenham vs Portsmouth - Away win - 3/4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Exeter vs Carlisle - Home win - 11/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Barrow vs Tranmere - Home win - 17/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Bradford vs Crawley - Home win - 7/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon vs Colchester - Home win - 11/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm12 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm20"></span><em><u><span class="tm21">£12.06</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">More whopping than I feel comfortable with.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm24">1. </span><span class="tm24">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Coventry, England in 1996. An attacking midfielder, I began my senior career at Coventry City before moving to Norwich City. I was signed out on loan to Coventry and
Aberdeen before Leicester City bought me for around £20 million. I currently play for Tottenham Hotspur who bought me for about £40 million. I have been capped five times for England.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - James Maddison</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Philippe Clement has proven to be a steady manager at Rangers, but which team did he coach immediately before moving to Glasgow?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Monaco</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which club plays its home games at the Bet365 Stadium (formerly known as the Britannia Stadium)?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Stoke City</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Scotland has qualified for Euro 2024; when was the team’s debut appearance in that tournament?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - 1992</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Anagram answers -</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">BEELMWY - Wembley</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">AFIKPRR - Fir Park</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">FHIILLR - Firhill</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ADEFILN - Anfield</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ADEHMNP - Hampden</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">EILMNOUX - Molineux</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ADDEEELP - Deepdale</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">AACDEINNT - Tannadice</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">BIORX - Ibrox </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ACEELNSTTY - Tynecastle</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ACCEIKLPRT - Celtic Park</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">AADEEORRST - Easter Road</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, let’s have a few to tease you, this week...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1998. A midfielder, I began my senior career at Vasco da Gama before signing for Manchester City on a five-year contract, but never played a game for
them. I was loaned out to Girona supposedly for one season, but the loan spell was continued because the UK Home Office denied me a work permit. I signed to my current club Aston Villa in 2019 and finally received my work
permit.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. The UEFA European Championship began in 1960; which four nations took part?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which recently retired football manager has coached the following clubs - Gainsburgh Trinity, Burton Albion, Scarborough, Notts County, Torquay United, Huddersfield Town (twice),
Plymouth Argyle, Oldham Athletic, Bury, Sheffield United, Crystal Palace (twice), QPR (twice but caretaker manager on the second occasion), Leeds United, Rotherham United, Cardiff City and Middlesbrough?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the New York Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club lost the FA Cup Final against Chelsea in both 2007 and 2018?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it. Have fun trying to work that lot out. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your
pals so that they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£75,124</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm17">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am grateful to a Mr. R. Atkinson, the well-known (seemingly) rubber-faced comedian who gave us the brilliant characters of Edmund Blackadder
and Mr Bean and provides this week’s closing clip. There are so many clever comedic moments to consider, But I hope this will make you smile. Ladeez and genullum, please welcome the </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzNORwik0dY">Reverend Atkinson.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm17"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm17">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-6826341208659552922023-12-23T12:22:00.002+00:002023-12-23T13:44:20.881+00:00Post 495 - Lonely this gramblemas<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">At this time of year, we all get a bit nostalgic for Christmases past, when there was always snow on the ground... Well, according to Irving Berlin there was... When everyone was
happy and smiling and just enjoying this, as Andy Williams assured us, most wonderful time of the year.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bollocks, says I. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I like to give you a Christmas memory or two as we approach the big day and this year is no exception. Last year, I told you about my earliest Christmas memory. This year, I will
tell you about my least satisfactory Christmas. Indeed, I would go as far as to call it a sad occasion. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’m not talking about recent times. 2013 will forever be my saddest Christmas; the first without Stewart (the founder of this, the world’s greatest ill-informed blog).
Instead, I am talking about a Christmas from my childhood which was just... miserable. It was also the Christmas when I, at a very early age, realised something had to change.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I have, in the past, told you how a favourite Christmas tradition of my brother and I was to lug our pillowcases full of pressies through to Mum and Dad’s bedroom and climb
in beside them in bed to open our gifts. The Christmas I am recalling for this year’s trip down Christmassy memory lane was the last one prior to beginning that happy ritual.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">This must have been when I was about five or six years old. As always, my brother and I had gone to bed early on Christmas Eve. For some reason, unlike every other night of the
year, I was desperate to go to bed. Can’t think why. It must have annoyed my big brother no end, because it meant that he had to go at the same time. Why? Because he was a decoy. Sorry pardon excuse me? To explain;
he is a few years older than me and no longer... how can I put this?... as excited that Santa Claus might pay a visit. I, on the other hand, was utterly hyper at the prospect. My brother and I shared a bedroom and he was
encouraged to go to bed at the same time to try and calm me down a bit.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">That was more easily said than done. He had a smart tactic, though. He would say that Santa wouldn’t leave anything for anyone who wasn’t asleep and, wait a minute,
was that bells he could hear? I would listen and convince myself that I, too, could hear them. I would close my eyes tightly shut, feigning sleep. After a while, I would actually fall asleep.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">My brother probably went back through to the living room to report that he had succeeded in his task. I have no idea; I was fast asleep.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The next morning, I awoke when it was still dark outside. This was before the pillowcase idea had taken hold, so there was nothing to see at the foot of the bed. I wandered sleepily
through to the living room. There, alone and in the dark, I opened my presents and began playing with a clockwork train set (that year’s ‘big’ present) wishing that there was somebody there to share these
moments of... What? I certainly wasn’t experiencing any feelings of joy. Quite the reverse. I was feeling quite depressed. Yes, I had some nice presents, but didn’t feel I could enjoy them. Not on my own.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’m guessing that I then wandered back to the bedroom and got back into bed. I do recall that my thoughts at that moment were that I had just ruined Christmas. And I had.
That was the moment I decided that, in future, I would never again open my presents alone.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I must have fallen asleep because, when I got up, it was light outside. I went into the living room to get Christmas cuddles from Mum and Dad. By golly, I needed them. I probably
cried thinking that I had spoiled Christmas for everyone thanks to my antics during the night. I hadn’t, of course, but a five-year-old child doesn’t realise that.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Other than that, I recall nothing else about that particular Christmas. I do know that the pillowcase idea was mooted by Mum and Dad in order to prevent me pulling that stunt again.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">So, there you have it, my most disappointing Christmas. Not a particularly jolly story for this time of year, but it does touch on the sadder aspect of loneliness at Christmas.
With all the adverts on TV showing families tucking into festive meals, it must be a very sad time for those living alone.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh dear, this is becoming a bit depressing. Let’s lighten things a bit with some Christmas cracker jokes. Here are this year’s top ten. In Christmas colours, too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Did you hear about the Christmas cake on display in the British Museum? It was Stollen.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm14"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Why is Elon Musk's Christmas dinner so awkward? He can't stop talking about his X.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Why isn't Barbie having turkey for Christmas dinner this year? Chic-Ken is enough.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm14"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Why aren't any schools allowed to put on a nativity this year? They couldn't find a stable building.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">What impact will the 20mph speed limit in Wales have on the charts this year? Chris Rea will be driving home for Easter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm14"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What happened to Mark Zuckerberg's novelty jumper when he had a cage fight with Elon Musk? He was left with nothing but Threads.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13" style="color: red;">What's the difference between The Polar Express and HS2? One's a fantasy about a train and the other's a film with Tom Hanks. </span><span class="tm9">[The old switcheroony, there. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm14"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What did Robert Oppenheimer get Barbie for Christmas? Atomic Kenergy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Why are the train drivers on the naughty list this year? Because they've already had three strikes!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm14"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">How does Margot Robbie decorate her Nativity scene? With 3 wise Ken.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">[They are the best? Jeez, I’d hate to see the runners up. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 23rd of December? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Richard Arkwright 1732 - Textile entrepreneur.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Maurice Denham 1909 - Jobbing actor. Rawley in </span><em><span class="tm8">Porridge</span></em><span class="tm9">. 207 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Noel Dyson 1916 - Actress. Ida Barlow (Ken’s mum) in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Peggy Fortnum 1919 - Illustrator. Famous for illustrating Paddington Bear in Michael Bond’s stories.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Charlie Williams 1928 - Comedian. Famous for his broad Yorkshire accent... And being totally useless as a presenter of TV gameshow, </span><em><span class="tm8">The Golden Shot</span></em><span class="tm9">. Prior to being a stand-up, he was a professional footballer, playing 171 times for Doncaster Rovers.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6T_-09cYRSvyJl5z4SvDNrsTEbcGplw73zlb9VpAVhvLQikHZIIxwkYJZYXG8rwEQ7AqbL-UQFgdhCZVK-XeT5A9i0WB4fixp-j_byVXNbmAcVLADxb3Hz9V6wTtnryHufq5QF9457Y5DU4UCSS9ZIBvsJQmnwzxI-AR60VahlNh8Ys5bWlU1QNdmkcs/s591/charlie%20williams.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="591" data-original-width="435" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6T_-09cYRSvyJl5z4SvDNrsTEbcGplw73zlb9VpAVhvLQikHZIIxwkYJZYXG8rwEQ7AqbL-UQFgdhCZVK-XeT5A9i0WB4fixp-j_byVXNbmAcVLADxb3Hz9V6wTtnryHufq5QF9457Y5DU4UCSS9ZIBvsJQmnwzxI-AR60VahlNh8Ys5bWlU1QNdmkcs/s320/charlie%20williams.jpg" width="236" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ee - I've had some laughs</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"><br /></span></span><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Fred Heath aka Johnny Kidd 1935 - Singer/songwriter. Had a few hits with his Pirates. Let’s have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLQaNQbLRW8">Please Don't Touch.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Nightingale 1942 - Actor. Tom Seaton in </span><em><span class="tm8">When the Boooat Comes In</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Sullivan 1946 - TV scriptwriter. </span><em><span class="tm8">Citizen Smith</span></em><span class="tm9">, </span><em><span class="tm8">Just Good Friends</span></em><span class="tm9"> and </span><em><span class="tm8">Only Fools and Horses</span></em><span class="tm9"> were his best-known creations.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Luther Grosvenor aka Ariel Bender 1946 - Musician. Part of Mott the Hoople. I was never too certain about that name. Is a Hoople called Mott? In that case, where is the comma after
Mott. Or is it an instruction to do something to a hoople? How, exactly, do you go about motting it? I think we should have these things explained. Anyway, would you like a clip? Of course you would. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRJnzp3Xe48">Honaloochie Boogie.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Graham Bonnet 1947 - Singer/songwriter. Here’s an early hit by The Marbles that you might recognise,</span><span class="tm9"> </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tC1auBpqZ4E">Only One Woman.</a> Factoid: Bonnet was approached by the members of Sweet to replace Brian Connolly, but chose to join Rainbow. The rest, as they say, is history.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Davis 1948 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Anthony Phillips 1951 - Musician. Genesis’ original guitarist who left the band, not for musical differences but, because of his stage fright. Another clip? Indeed. Here’s
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfrkUafZ5q8">Deep in the Night.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dave Allen 1955 - Not the comedian, but the musician who once played bass for Gang of Four. Let’s have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fRjsBh_R3TQ">Damaged Goods.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dave Murray 1956 - Musician. He has been a guitarist with the band Iron Maiden since its formation in 1975. Crikey! Nearly half a century with the same band. That’s what you
call a job for life. Shall we have a clip? I do believe we shall. Let's Raaawwwk! Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ge6kCUemu2k">Stratego.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nej Adamson 1958 - Actor. Ali Osman in the early years of </span><em><span class="tm8">Eastenders</span></em><span class="tm9">... you slaaag!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Smiley smiley Carol Smillie 1961 - TV presenter. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nick Moran 1969 - Actor. Eddy in </span><em><span class="tm8">Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels</span></em><span class="tm9">. 111 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Karine Polwart 1970 - Singer/songwriter. Let’s have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_nBzKG72YE">Daisy.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tara Palmer-Tompkinson 1971 - Famous woman who was famous for... you tell me.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Matt Baker 1977 - TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jodie Marsh 1978 - See Tara Palmer-Tompkinson.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gavin Strachan 1978 - Fitba guy. Gordon’s lad.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Frazer Wright 1979 - Fitba guy. Fae Polomint City, by the way.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kenny Miller 1979 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Aidan David 1981 - Actor. James ‘Arnie’ Arnold in </span><em><span class="tm8">Grange Hill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Chopra 1983 - Foo’y blurk. That’s supposed to be Geordie.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Harry Judd 1985 - Musician and </span><em><span class="tm8">Strictly Come Dancing</span></em><span class="tm9"> winner. He is the drummer with McFly. Would you like a clip? Of course you would. Here’s a new track from the band, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18vaO7wbUQU">God of Rock & Roll.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Danny MacAskill 1985 - Bikey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Dave Grambly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was lovely to hear a fairly recent song from your band Iron Maiden. I have a question for you: what was your band’s first single to reach the top ten in the charts?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours heavy-metally,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86URGgqONvA">Ron Tudor-Hills.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Blordkaes fare? We won... and lost. £1.94 back from our £2.20 stake. Oh no. 26 pees down. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Hull vs Cardiff - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Hull 3 Cardiff 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts found the breakthrough they deserved when Aaron Connolly met Liam Delap's low cross for an easy finish.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Hull doubled the lead 10 minutes into the second half, Scott Twine's free-kick finding the top corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">And the Tigers scored their third three minutes later as Ozan Tufan chipped the ball over Jak Alnwick into the back of the Cardiff net to seal victory.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Bolton vs Bristol Rovers - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Bolton 1 Bristol Rovers 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">First-half goals from John Marquis and Antony Evans condemned 10-man Bolton to a 2-1 defeat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Rovers grabbed a 10th-minute lead when Grant Ward crossed for Marquis to score.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors' fortunes increased when Bolton captain Ricardo Santos was sent off for tripping Aaron Collins 12 minutes before half-time. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The Gas went 2-0 up as Collins set up Evans for his goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Nathan Baxter kept Bolton in the hunt when saving from Collins, Evans and Connor Taylor before Wanderers rallied.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">George Thomason forced Matt Cox into his first save of the game after 66 minutes and the goalkeeper made a more spectacular effort to deny Jon Dadi Bodvarsson with 20 minutes left.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Defender Eoin Toal's late consolation could not prevent the Trotters' defeat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Barnsley vs Charlton - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Barnsley 1 Charlton 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Adam Phillips opened the scoring for the home side, with Corey Blackett-Taylor providing the second-half equaliser.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackett-Taylor broke through the Barnsley defence in the seventh minute, but he could only find the side-netting as the angle drew tighter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Barnsley midfielder Herbie Kane looked to have found the top corner from 25 yards out in the 20th minute, but Charlton keeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer tipped over.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts broke the deadlock in the 24th minute under controversial circumstances when Kane battled well to retrieve the ball in the left corner, driving inside to find Phillips
who slotted home.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Maynard-Brewer and head coach Michael Appleton were booked in the aftermath of the goal, with the Addicks arguing the ball had left the field of play in the build-up.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackett-Taylor scored the equaliser for Charlton in the 70th minute. Driving in from the left and beating several defenders before firing past Liam Roberts.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Shrewsbury vs Portsmouth - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Shrewsbury 0 Portsmouth 3</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Two goals from Abu Kamara and another from Marlon Pack gave Portsmouth an emphatic win.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Just before the half-hour mark, Paddy Lane cut the ball back to Kusini Yengi in the heart of the box, but the Pompey forward blasted it over the bar.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors took the lead on the stroke of half-time. Pack launched a long throw to the back post and Kamara bundled the ball into the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Pompey doubled their lead in the 62nd minute when Lane cut in from the left to reach the near post and lay the ball off to Pack, who poked it in from close range.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Shrewsbury came close to pulling a goal back with under 20 minutes remaining. Mal Benning fed a ball into fellow substitute Max Mata in the box. The striker held off a defender
before shooting, but his effort went over.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Kamara completed the scoring with six minutes remaining, after being played through on goal by Christian Saydee, rifling the ball into the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Crawley vs Mansfield - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Crawley 1 Mansfield 3</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The Stags, pegged back by a penalty from Danilo Orsi after Baily Cargill's opener, stepped up their game in the second half to clinch their first victory in three league matches.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Scott Lindsey went into the contest believing Crawley have come a hell of a long way since he took over as boss 11 months ago. ‘They’ve come a hell of a long way since
I took over as boss 11 months ago,’ he said.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">However, the hosts suffered an early blow when defender Cargill gave Mansfield the lead after 12 minutes with a thumping header from a fierce cross by Rhys Oates.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Stags goalkeeper Christy Pym went down bravely to claim a dangerous cross by Kellan Gordon before Oates wasted a quick Mansfield counter-attack by hastily firing over from a good
position.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Crawley equalised nine minutes before the break when Orsi powered home his 11th goal of the season from the penalty spot. He made no mistake after referee Scott Simpson had ruled
that Lucas Akins had fouled Adam Campbell.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Mansfield had a let-off 10 minutes into the second half when a rasping drive from Will Wright struck the post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">However, the Stags took the lead a minute later when Davis Keillor-Dunn netted his 12th goal of the season from close range following a cross by substitute Stephen Quinn.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">George Maris wrapped up the points in the 64th minute with a first-time shot from the edge of the area after good work by Akins.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts were reduced to 10 men in the 69th minute when defender Jay Williams picked up two yellow cards for fouling Quinn and then showing dissent. What a tw*t!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">So, three yays, a boo and an ’it the bar meant we weren’t in profit last time, can The Grambler come up with the goods this week? [Doubt it. - Ed.] Let’s see
what he/she/it has randomly predicted.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Fulham vs Burnley - Home win - 8/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Tottenham vs Everton - Home win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Sunderland vs Coventry - Home win - 5/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">QPR vs Southampton - Away win - 3/4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackpool vs Bristol Rovers - Home win - 3/4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm12 tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #800180; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm20"></span><em><u><span class="tm21">£9.30</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">9-30? My bedtime.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm15"><strong><em><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm24">1. </span><span class="tm24">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I was born in </span><span class="tm9">Aliança, Brazil in 1996. An attacking midfielder, I began my senior career at Brazilian club Sport Recife before moving to 1899 Hoffenheim,
although I was loaned out to Rapid Wien for much of my time there. I currently play for Newcastle United. I have been capped for Brazil five times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Joelinton</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Who is the current manager of Aston Villa?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Unai Emery [Dick’s lad? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Similar to last week’s question 3, who has won the English First Division title, F.A. Cup, League Cup and the Scottish League Cup as both player and manager?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Kenny Dalglish</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who has scored the most goals as a West Ham player?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Vic Watson with 326</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram for you. Who is this English player from the past?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">AXED INDIE</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Dixie Dean</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Here are some to test you over Christmas.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Coventry, England in 1996. An attacking midfielder, I began my senior career at Coventry City before moving to Norwich City. I was signed out on loan to Coventry and
Aberdeen before Leicester City bought me for around £20 million. I currently play for Tottenham Hotspur who bought me for about £40 million. I have been capped five times for England.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Philippe Clement has proven to be a steady manager at Rangers, but which team did he coach immediately before moving to Glasgow?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which club plays its home games at the Bet365 Stadium (formerly known as the Britannia Stadium)?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Scotland has qualified for Euro 2024; when was the team’s debut appearance in that tournament?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Would you like some anagrams? Okay, this week, since it is Christmas, here are not one, not two, not even five anagrams, but twelve, yes twelve, to test your knowledge of footy grounds
in England and Scotland.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">BEELMWY</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">AFIKPRR</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">FHIILLR</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ADEFILN</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ADEHMNP</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">EILMNOUX</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ADDEEELP</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">AACDEINNT</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">BIORX</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ACEELNSTTY</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">ACCEIKLPRT</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">AADEEORRST</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it. Have fun trying to work that lot out. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your
pals so that they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm15"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">£74,127</span></u></i></b></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm19">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am grateful to a Mr. D. MacAskill for this week’s finishing link. Danny MacAskill is a famous mountain/stunt cyclist from Skye. He has
made films of his rides all over the world, but we are going to go to the Isle of Skye for our link. Ladeez and genullum, please be astounded by </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ_IQS3VKjA">The Ridge.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm19"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm19">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-5977749683905344642023-12-16T12:49:00.000+00:002023-12-16T12:49:28.343+00:00Post 494 - A tasteful, christmassy gramble<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Christmas is coming,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">The goose is get... [You did that last week. Give it a rest. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">All right. I will. For now.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Ah yes, Gramblemas is nearly upon us and Mrs G loves nothing better than getting her baubles out at this time of year to decorate the tree.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">I don't know about your trees... obviously... but it is a wonder that ours doesn't collapse under the weight of all the baubles and decorations
that Mrs G and I have accumulated over the years. Why so many, I hear you ask. Well, it started a long time ago [Hovis time? - Ed.] No, not Hovis time. I was merely going to tell you that many years ago Mrs G decided to start
collecting a Christmas tree decoration from each of the places we visited. Nice, eh? [You've been to Nice? - Ed.] Ahem. If I might continue... We have visited a lot of places over the years and the tree now groans under
the mass of trinkets and baubles loaded onto it. Okay, it isn't in the least bit artistic, but it brings back a lot of happy memories for us at Christmas. Isn't that lovely?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">What? Is that it? The Grambler gives us a twee little story about happy memories? Nothing else?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Please don't panic. There is more.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">As well as tree decorations, we have accumulated some amount of tacky Christmas ornaments to sit on tables, sideboards, even floors. And you know what
that means, don't you... Batteries. Loads of them.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Just a little aside - Have you noticed that batteries tend to come in packs of four? Have you also noticed that most of the ornaments that need batteries
use three? Discuss.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Here is a list of just some of these 'tasteful' ornaments.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Globe that lights up displaying the words 'Have a holly jolly Christmas'. Though, disappointingly, it doesn't play the well-known Christmas
song of the</span> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLr1AYRBS0A">same name</a> as sung by Mr Ugly Bug Ball himself, Burl Ives - three batteries required.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Christmas scene of a village with lights and a rotating Christmas tree... No, I don't understand that either... three.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Snow globe that not only lights up but has a spinner type of thing to agitate the 'snowflakes' - three.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Cuddly dog in a Santa hat that sings Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer, Deck the Halls and We Wish You a Merry Christmas - three.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Two metal things that look like baked bean tins until you switch their lights on, when they reveal a snowy scene with Santa's sleigh and Reindeer -
three each.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Nativity scene which has a light above the stable and does absolutely nothing else - three.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">A doormat showing Santa either going down a chimney to deliver various toys or emerging from a chimney having ransacked the house... probably the former...
which plays a rather distorted first line of Deck the Halls followed by a very loud 'Ho ho ho... Merry Christmas' - two. Only two? That is unusual.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">By my reckoning (not always the best) that's 20 Duracels. Minimum. Bear in mind, some of that lovely tat will be played to death by the grand weans...
especially that bloody dog and the doormat*... so more batteries will be needed as the season to be merry wears on. We are talking 30 or more batteries. How much do batteries cost? The cheapest I have seen are seven quid for
a dozen. Probably best to buy three dozen. What?!! 21 quids? Just to power some tacky ornaments? For one household? I haven't even touched upon all the kids' toys that get bought at Christmas with a dismissive 'Batteries
not included' printed in small letters somewhere on the box. Taking all that into account, how many batteries are bought nationwide at Christmas, I wonder.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">I'll tell you what, I wouldn't mind being a shareholder in a battery company at this time of year... Tis certainly the season for them to be jolly...
come dividend payout time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">So, if I may just reiterate (They can't touch you for it.)...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Christmas is coming,<br />The goose is getting fat,<br />Please put a penny in the old man's hat.<br />If you haven't got a penny...<br />How about
a few batteries?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Ps. Don't get me started on all the other light-up christmassy crap we've got that is mains operated.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">* Actually, that's not strictly true; these usually have their batteries removed within a day.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 16th of December? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Catherine of Aragon 1485 - First wife of Henry VIII after first being married to his late brother, Arthur.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Agnes Baden-Powell 1858 - Founder of the Girl Guide movement. Younger sister of Robert.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jack Hobbs 1882 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Noel Coward 1899 - Playwright, composer, director, actor and singer... In fact, a right old smarty boots, dear, dear boy. How about a clip from the man known as the Master [Master? Are you sure? - Ed.] Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSA5C8mQcLQ">There are Bad Times Just Around the Corner.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Arthur C. Clarke 1917 - </span><span class="tm16">Science fiction writer, science writer, inventor, undersea explorer, and television series host</span><span class="tm9">... In fact, another right old...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nicholas Courtney 1929 - Actor. Colonel Lethbridge-Stewart in </span><em><span class="tm8">Doctor Who</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ronald Allen 1930 - Actor. David Hunter in </span><em><span class="tm8">Crossroads</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Angus McKenzie aka Karl Denver 1931. Here’s his biggest hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09SXTH699xE">Wimoweh.</a> Wow! Some voice.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Quentin Blake 1932 - Illustrator and writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tony Hicks 1945 - Musician. A Holly. Have another clip. Here's the band's first number one, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVJ0jGC_0tU">I'm Alive.</a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODDfynUIubmFnS9V8ITL5YDAFDWf0AbGoK3ZvRj-jjbuF6WUE7Est8X7owboREKbkkyqklQSsxmFLqPq6TarayYPQu3Zo_Z_NRyZS2SmnFj1te5DyTzusi4itfEW5MIj1PzyBBlSQJQmQ0GZAUXGc71mxhIRmSTso8QaYt50-dWdjF0ao6kiZapwfChY/s514/tony%20hicks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="443" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODDfynUIubmFnS9V8ITL5YDAFDWf0AbGoK3ZvRj-jjbuF6WUE7Est8X7owboREKbkkyqklQSsxmFLqPq6TarayYPQu3Zo_Z_NRyZS2SmnFj1te5DyTzusi4itfEW5MIj1PzyBBlSQJQmQ0GZAUXGc71mxhIRmSTso8QaYt50-dWdjF0ao6kiZapwfChY/s320/tony%20hicks.jpg" width="276" /></a></div><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tony Hicks; very much alive</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bobby George 1945 - Darty bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Ellison 1946 - Actor. D.I./D.C.I. Burnside in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Bill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Diane Towler 1946 - Ice skatey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ben Cross 1947 - Actor. Harold Abrahams in </span><em><span class="tm8">Chariots of Fire</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Christopher Biggins 1948 - Actor. Lukewarm in </span><em><span class="tm8">Porridge</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Stephanie Lawrence 1949 - Singer/actress. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xvc50ijTraI">The right to Sing.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tommy Burns 1956 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dennis Wise 1966 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Simon Grayson 1969 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Scott Booth 1971 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nicholas Cochrane 1973 - Actor. Andy McDonald in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alicya Eyo 1975 - Actress. Dominique Darby in </span><em><span class="tm8">Clink</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joe Absolom 1978 - Actor. Matthew Rose in Eastenders. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Sebastian Croft 2001 - Actor. Atti in </span><em><span class="tm8">Horrible Histories: The Movie</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Blardkoes fare? We won... and lost. 72 pees back from our £2.20 stake. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Norwich vs Preston - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Norwich 0 Preston 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The Canaries dominated possession in the opening half, with Marcelino Nunez inches wide as he tried his luck from 25 yards.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">North End, though, carried a greater threat after the break and Ben Whiteman's shot from the edge of the box hit the crossbar after Angus Gunn failed to gather Ali McCann's
cross.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Substitute Liam Gibbs was just off target from Gabriel Sara's through ball, but Norwich could not find a way through.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Stoke vs Sheffield Wed - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Stoke 0 Sheffield Wed 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Anthony Musaba's injury-time winner stunned Stoke City. It stunned me, as well.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The Dutchman kept his head in a one-on-one with Stoke keeper Tommy Simkin.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">In a grim encounter, Stoke only had themselves to blame after missing a second-half penalty when Owls keeper Cameron Dawson kept out Ryan Mmaee's spot-kick.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Orient vs Derby - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Orient 0 Derby 3</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Derby cruised to victory away against 10-man Leyton Orient.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Louie Sibley scored in the first half before O's defender Brandon Cooper was dismissed and then Nathaniel Mendez-Laing and Tom Barkhuizen added one apiece in the second period.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Playing with energy and enthusiasm, the Rams had squandered a couple of excellent chances before they took the lead after 34 minutes through Sibley.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">He collected a pass and bore down unchallenged on goal before delivering a sublime drive from 22 yards that nestled low into the bottom corner of the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">And Orient's misery was compounded nine minutes later when Cooper was sent off by referee David Rock after elbowing James Collins as the pair clashed just near the halfway
line.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Derby doubled their lead two minutes into the second half when skipper Conor Hourihane picked out the unmarked Mendez-Laing, who had the simplest of chances to net his sixth goal
of the campaign.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Totally in control, the visitors added to their tally when Mendez-Laing fed substitute Barkhuizen a simple opportunity after the pair had broken out quickly following an Orient
corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Peterborough vs Oxford - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Peterborough 3 Oxford 0</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Posh's first-half dominance was rewarded with two goals from Hector Kyprianou and Ricky-Jade Jones, with substitute Ryan De Havilland adding a third late on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Kyprianou had the simple task of breaking the deadlock in the 24th minute after Harrison Burrows cut the ball back into his path following an Archie Collins blast being parried
by goalkeeper James Beadle.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The advantage doubled 10 minutes later when Jones sped onto a fine Ephron Mason-Clark pass, skipped round Beadle and finished into a gaping net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Fine Beadle stops from Joel Randall and Jones then followed as Peterborough dominated throughout the opening 45 minutes.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Oxford were livelier in the second period as Billy Bodin demanded a penalty for a shove after firing a Josh Murphy cross wide just after the hour but only received a caution from
referee James Linington for his appeal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Marcus McGuane then tested Posh keeper Nicholas Bilokapic from long range before the home side went back on the attack with Beadle denying Kwame Poku and Mason-Clark.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But the hosts struck again in the second minute of stoppage time when substitute David Ajiboye picked out fellow replacement De Havilland to finish.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Wycombe vs Shrewsbury - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Wycombe 0 Shrewsbury 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Taylor Perry's first-half strike gave Shrewsbury Town the win over the Chairboys.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts started off the better and nearly took the lead on 21 minutes when Luke Leahy saw his free-kick tipped over the bar by Marko Marosi, before David Wheeler fired wide six
minutes later.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">For large parts of the contest, Wycombe dominated possession and bossed the ball, with Shrewsbury having little to no attacking threat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Yet it was the Shropshire visitors who took the lead five minutes before the break.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Perry picked up the ball from range to smash a terrific drive beyond Max Stryjek.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Wanderers pushed on in the final 15 minutes as Kieran Sadlier, Sam Vokes and Garath McCleary all went close, but Marosi was on hand to deny the chasing Chairboys.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh well. Ne’er mind eh. Apologies for the spelling error last week. Blame predictive text, Wickham. Any road up, what has The Grambler randomly predicted for us this
week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Hull vs Cardiff - Home win - 5/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Bolton vs Bristol Rovers - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Barnsley vs Charlton - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Shrewsbury vs Portsmouth - Away win - 8/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Crawley vs Mansfield - Away win - 5/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm12 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #800180; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm19"></span><em><u><span class="tm20">£10.62</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Not really that whopping.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm23">1. </span><span class="tm23">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Barcelona in 1995. A goalkeeper, I began my career at Blackburn Rovers before moving to Brentford. I am currently on loan to another Premier League club. I have been
capped for Spain three times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - David Raya</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which club plays its home games at Portman Road?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Ipswich Town</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who is the only man to have won the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup and Scottish League as a player and as a manager?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Neil Lennon</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which is the last club to have joined the (English) Football League for the first time?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Sutton United</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram; this time a Scottish player...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">SENSE OUR GAMES</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Graeme Souness</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">That was easy, wasn’t it? Shall we have five for this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I was born in </span><span class="tm9">Aliança, Brazil in 1996. An attacking midfielder, I began my senior career at Brazilian club Sport Recife before moving to 1899 Hoffenheim,
although I was loaned out to Rapid Wien for much of my time there. I currently play for Newcastle United. I have been capped for Brazil five times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Who is the current manager of Aston Villa?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Similar to last week’s question 3, who has won the English First Division title, F.A. Cup, League Cup and the Scottish League Cup as both player and manager?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who has scored the most goals as a West Ham player?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram for you. Who is this English player from the past?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">AXED INDIE</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm11"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£74,097</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am grateful to a Mr. W. Hicks who was born on the 16th of December in 1961. Bill Hicks was an American comedian who seemed to constantly court
controversy during his short career (He died in 1994). His style was brash and he would challenge his audience. There were those who rated him as one of the greatest comedians that ever walked this Earth and there are others
who just didn’t get it. Since his death, his body of work has been reappraised and, frankly, it hasn’t aged well. I know I did the same thing on his birthday six years ago, but in those years I believe his humour has become even less acceptable.</span></span><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> His abrasive 'I'm right; you're wrong' style doesn't seem to sit too well these days. </span></span><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> S</span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">ee what you think.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">I never got along with my dad. Kids used to come up to me and say, 'My dad can beat up your dad.' I'd say 'Yeah? When?'</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Lots of Christians wear crosses around their necks… You really think when Jesus comes back, he ever wants to see a f***ing cross?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">I believe that there is an equality to all humanity: We all suck.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">It's always funny until someone gets hurt. Then it's just hilarious.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">The world is like a ride in an amusement park. And when you choose to go on it you think it's real because that's how powerful our minds are. And the ride goes up and
down and round and round. It has thrills and chills and it's very brightly coloured and it's very loud and it's fun, for a while. Some people have been on the ride for a long time and they begin to question: 'Is
this real, or is this just a ride?' And other people have remembered, and they come back to us, they say, 'Hey, don't worry, don't be afraid, ever, because this is just a ride.' And we kill those people.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">They lie about marijuana. Tell you pot-smoking makes you unmotivated. Lie! When you're high, you can do everything you normally do just as well - you just realize that it's
not worth the f***ing effort. There is a difference.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">You know I've noticed a certain anti-intellectualism going around this country ever since around 1980, coincidentally enough. I was in Nashville, Tennessee last weekend
and after the show I went to a waffle house and I'm sitting there and I'm eating and reading a book. I don't know anybody, I'm alone, I'm eating and I'm reading a book. This waitress comes over to me
(mocks chewing gum) 'what you readin' for?'...wow, I've never been asked that; not 'What am I reading', 'What am I reading for?' Well, goddamnit, you stumped me...I guess I read for a lot of
reasons — the main one is so I don't end up being a f***in' waffle waitress. Yeah, that would be pretty high on the list. Then this trucker in the booth next to me gets up, stands over me and says [mocks Southern
drawl] 'Well, looks like we got ourselves a readah'...aahh, what the fuck's goin' on? It's like I walked into a Klan rally in a Boy George costume or something. Am I stepping out of some intellectual closet
here? I read, there I said it. I feel better.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Today a young man on acid realized that all matter is merely energy condensed to a slow vibration, that we are all one consciousness experiencing itself subjectively, there is
no such thing as death, life is only a dream, and we are the imagination of ourselves. Heres Tom with the Weather!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">Folks, it's time to evolve. That's why we're troubled. You know why our institutions are failing us, the church, the state, everything's failing? It's because,
um – they're no longer relevant. We're supposed to keep evolving. Evolution did not end with us growing opposable thumbs. You do know that, right?</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">This idea of ‘I’m offended’. Well I’ve got news for you. I’m offended by a lot of things too. Where do I send my list? Life is offensive. You know
what I mean? Just get in touch with your outer adult. And grow up. And move on. Reasonable people don’t write letters.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">If anyone here is in advertising or marketing, kill yourself… Seriously. You are the ruiner of all things good. Seriously. No this is not a joke… You are Satan’s
spawn filling the world with bile and garbage. You are f***ed and you are f***ing us. Kill yourself. It’s the only way to save your f***ing soul. Kill yourself.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">If you are living for tomorrow, you will always be one day behind.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">If you want to understand a society, take a good look at the drugs it uses. And what can this tell you about American culture? Well, look at the drugs we use. Except for pharmaceutical
poison, there are essentially only two drugs that Western civilization tolerates: Caffeine from Monday to Friday to energize you enough to make you a productive member of society, and alcohol from Friday to Monday to keep
you too stupid to figure out the prison that you are living in.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Any organization created out of fear must create fear to survive.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">The puppet on the right shares my beliefs, the puppet on the left is more to my liking. Hey...there's one guy holding up both!</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">I do not believe making money in order to consume goods is<br />mankind’s sole purpose on this planet. If you’re wondering<br />what I believe our purpose on this planet
is, I’ll give you<br />a hint... it has to do with creating and sharing.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">It's all about money, not freedom. If you think you're free, try going somewhere without money, okay?</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16">You know all the money we spend on nuclear weapons and defence every year? Trillions of dollars? Correct? Trillions. Instead, if we spent that money feeding and clothing the poor
of the world,which it would pay for many times over, not one human being excluded, not one, we could, as one race, explore outer space together in peace forever</span><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">Children are smarter than any of us. Know how I know that? I don't know one child with a full time job and children.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">What did moths bump into before the electric light bulb was invented? Boy, the lightbulb really screwed the moth up didn't it? Are there moths on their way to the sun now going,
It's gonna be worth it!.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">Christianity has a built-in defense system: anything that questions a belief, no matter how logical the argument is, is the work of Satan by the very fact that it makes you
question a belief. It's a very interesting defense mechanism and the only way to get by it -- and believe me, I was raised Southern Baptist -- is to take massive amounts of mushrooms, sit in a field, and just go, "Show
me.".</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">And on the seventh day, god stepped back and said and said, "This is my creation, perfect in every way... oh, dammit I left all this pot all over the place. Now they'll
think I want them to smoke it... Now I have to create Republicans."</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">People tell me, 'Bill, let it go. The Kennedy assassination was years ago. It was just the assassination of a President and the hijacking of our government by a totalitarian
regime - who cares? Just let it go.' I say, 'All right then. That whole Jesus thing? Let it go! It was 2,000 years ago! Who cares?'</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">People are bringing shotguns to UFO sightings in Fife, Alabama. I asked a guy, "Why do you bring a gun to a UFO sighting?" Guy said, "Way-ul, we didn' wanna
be ab-duc-ted." If I lived in Fife, Alabama, I would be on my hands and knees every night praying for abduction.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And finally...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm tired of this back-slappin' "isn't humanity neat" bullshit. We're a virus with shoes.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What do you reckon? I don’t think such challenging thoughts would go down with a modern audience, but I do agree with many of them... especially the last one.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm12 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm13">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-35955102930009511722023-12-09T12:23:00.004+00:002023-12-16T22:34:50.596+00:00Post 493 - Where's my grambling parcel?<p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8"></span><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see. </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">A song to begin...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Here’s an oldie from The Drifters... Let’s get straight into the chorus...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Saturday night at the movies,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Who cares what picture you see...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">At 15 quid a pop, I do.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Christmas is coming,<br /></span><span class="tm13">The goose is getting fat,<br />Please put a penny in the old man's hat.<br />If you haven't got a penny,<br />he will
accept payments by card or bank transfer.<br /><br />Yes, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere I see, hence the slightly updated nursery rhyme that begins this week's story time. Anyway, Christmas,
time for me to join the crowds thronging the three, or is it four, shops still trading in our local shopping centre. Aye, sure, that will be right.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">This year Santa Amzoan will be delivering any pressies I shall be purchasing, thank you very much.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Indeed, I've already started my shopping. Two parcels were due to arrive this very afternoon/evening... Well, any time between 2.45 and 5.45.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Now, anyone who shops online will be aware that it is possible to track your parcel before its arrival. This, I did. After about 4 o'clock, I was wondering
if my delivery was imminent, so I went online to have a wee look.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Sure enough, there were my parcel details together with the information that delivery was imminent and that I was eighth in the queue. There was even a
map showing the exact location of the delivery van. It was, apparently, only three streets away. It wouldn't be long, now, I thought.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Three quarters of an hour later, I was still waiting. Had something gone wrong?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">I checked the tracking information again. It hadn't altered since I'd last looked. The van was still three streets away. I began to think it had
broken down.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Minutes later, there was a knock at the door and my parcels were delivered safe and sound. Great.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Hang on a mo... wasn't the van three streets away? How could the driver have got that far so quickly?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">I'll let you into a secret. This was one very smart delivery driver. His van was, indeed, still three streets away. How do I know? Because, after dropping
my parcels off, he got on a bike and rode off.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Smart, huh? He'd obviously worked out that the easiest way to negotiate the narrower streets was to park his bulky van at a central point and then
ride his bike (presumably kept in the van amongst the parcels) quickly to make any deliveries round about.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">The thing is, was this his idea, or was it now company policy? Sorry pardon excuse me what? Perhaps, Anazom were now expecting even more deliveries to
be made by their drivers. Perhaps, it was they who had instigated the bike runs between houses. If not, and I do hope it's not, please don't let on that I have told you about this driver with the brains to work out
an easier method of making deliveries, because, you know what would happen; it wouldn't be long until all drivers were issued with bikes to increase 'efficiency'. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Azamon would be hoping for delivery drivers to get about more quickly with ever-greater m.p.h. from its already overworked staff. That is, maildrops per
hour.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 2nd of December? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mary Slessor 1848 - Missionary.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Barbirolli 1899 - Conductor and cellist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Cobb 1899 - Speed demon. Between 1938 and 1947, Cobb held the world landspeed record on three occasions.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Bentley 1916 - Actor. Hugh Mortimer in </span><em><span class="tm8">Crossroads</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Cyril Ornadel 1924 - Composer, conductor and songwriter. He wrote the music for this song for the singing bus driver, Matt Monro, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dke2gSDcTP0">Portrait of My Love.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Eileen McCallum 1936 - Actress. Isabel Blair in </span><em><span class="tm8">Take the High Road</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Susan Stranks 1938 - Actress and TV presenter. Best remembered as a presenter of children’s show </span><em><span class="tm8">Magpie</span></em><span class="tm9"> from 1968 to 1974.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQoZwnh7QHAOts9fyI2xveIUX2MWEA_V5NkB4RFJ36WkItrPgmqyteSUN3ikIUTM-5zil4V8NcJ22xtRCkrxNxFoJMIFnV6p6H-AUDS496kZgiYjKHf9VG6IudinFfSyGb9trrSJ8muJJYynV3YNFfNezRLan6CuYNK1RwoHXBjN0iYw0TJ3Vuv3tJAw/s491/susan%20stranks.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="491" data-original-width="389" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQoZwnh7QHAOts9fyI2xveIUX2MWEA_V5NkB4RFJ36WkItrPgmqyteSUN3ikIUTM-5zil4V8NcJ22xtRCkrxNxFoJMIFnV6p6H-AUDS496kZgiYjKHf9VG6IudinFfSyGb9trrSJ8muJJYynV3YNFfNezRLan6CuYNK1RwoHXBjN0iYw0TJ3Vuv3tJAw/s320/susan%20stranks.jpg" width="254" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Susan Stranks: the only reason I ever watched <i>Magpie</i>.</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><span class="tm9"><br /></span></span><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mike England 1</span><span class="tm9">941 - </span><span class="tm9">Pêl-droediwr.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John D. Collins 1942 - Actor. Flying Officer Fairfax in </span><em><span class="tm8">Allo Allo</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andy Rouse 1947 - Racey drivery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gwyneth Strong 1959 - Actress. Cassandra in </span><em><span class="tm8">Only Fools and Horses</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nigel Spackman 1960 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rick Savage 1960 - Musician. Bassist with Def Leppard. I suppose a clip’s out of the question. Not at all. Here’s the band’s first single to chart, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aI_2SchPjks">Wasted.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Brendan Coyle 1963 - Actor. Mr Bates in </span><em><span class="tm8">Downton Abbey</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Batty 1968 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Donna Matthews 1971 - Musician. Lead guitarist with Elastica. A clip? Why not? Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlOje4ly4hg">Waking Up.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Wolstenholme 1978 - Musician. One third of Muse. Another clip? Most definitely. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xsp3_a-PMTw">Supermassive Black Hole.</a> That is one seriously weird video.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Chris Burke 1983 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Seann Walsh 1986 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alfred Enoch 1988 - Actor. Dean Thomas in the Harry Potter films.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stephen McGinn 1988 - Fitba guy. Brother of Paul and John.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Richard Tait 1989 - Fitba guy. Ex-Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kalvin Phillips 1985 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okeydokey, what about the 9th of December?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Milton 1608 - Poet. Paradise Lost, that was one of his.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">George Grossmith 1847 - Actor, writer, composer, singer and comedian... in fact, a right old smarty boots. With brother Weedon [Weed on? Ooh yuch! - Ed.], he wrote Diary of a Nobody.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Harry ‘Breaker’ Morant 1864 - Military officer and writer. Australian folk hero.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Percy Kahn 1880 - Composer. Here he is accompanying Enrico Caruso and violinist Mischa Elman in a 1913 recording of his composition,</span> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AotorRBv83I">Ave Maria.</a>Not bad for a 110 year-old recording.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Hermione Gingold 1897 - Actress. Madame Alvarez in </span><em><span class="tm8">Gigi</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Rab Butler 1902 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ernest Marples 1907 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Elisabeth Schwarzkopf 1915 - Chanter. Have a clip. Here’s </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm_AKMV0ME0">An die Musik.</a> [Andy Music? Who’s he, then? - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Benny Green 1927 - Saxophonist, writer and lover of cricket.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Judi Dench 1934 - Actress. Mary in </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Allelujah</span></em><span class="tm9">... and she’s done some other stuff.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Billy Bremner 1942 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joanna Trollope 1943 - Orferess.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Neil Innes 1944 - Musician. He wrote a few amusing tunes, but here’s his big hit, </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaoYsGQ_-Wc">Urban Spaceman.</a> A brief intro from Professor Stanley Unwin.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Allan Jones 1947 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Joan Armatrading 1950 - Musician. Here’s a fairly recent song, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kCakTCTJdI">Loving What You Hate.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Steve Askew 1957 - Musician. One-time guitarist with Kajagoogoo (Remember them?) Shall we have a wee clip? Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkpG4XApJ28">Too Shy.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dave Harold 1966 - Snookery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Geoff Barrow 1971 - Musician. He formed Portishead in 1991, so let’s have a track from them. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5hpnLIswbQ">Chase the Tear.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Luisa Bradshaw-White 1975 - Actress. Tina Carter in </span><em><span class="tm8">Eastenders</span></em><span class="tm9">. You slaaag!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Imogen Heap 1977 - Musician, singer-songwriter, record producer and audio engineer. [Perhaps she could fix my stereo. - Ed.] I don’t think that’s what it means. Have a clip.
Here’s</span> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqjWodek8ZM">Goodnight and Go.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lee Mair 1980 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gemma Fay 1981 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Steve Grambleskew,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I did enjoy the clip provided here, but I am troubled by something. The singer in the video is Limahl, am I right in thinking that he was sacked from the band? Did the group have any
top ten hits after he was kicked out?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours accusingly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sw-QyG0K9jw">B. Gappel.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">[Ignore the scary man at the beginning. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Blodkares fare? We lost. Not a penny back. Rubbish, or what? What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Burnley vs West Ham - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Burnley 1 West Ham 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The home side looked to be on course for a crucial victory thanks to Jay Rodriguez's penalty at the start of the second half.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But they were unable to double their advantage and West Ham made them pay in the closing stages.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Substitute Divin Mubama pressured Dara O'Shea into turning the ball into his own net in the 86th minute, before Tomas Soucek scored from Mohammed Kudus' deep cross in stoppage
time to complete the turnaround.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Luton vs Crystal Palace - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Luton 2 Crystal Palace 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">It took until the second half for the game to spark into life, with one of the few moments of note in the first period when Odsonne Edouard's goal was ruled out because the
ball ricocheted off Luton defender Tom Lockyer and on to the Palace striker's hand.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">That escape energised Luton and Teden Mengi poked home a loose ball in the box after a flick-on from a corner to break the deadlock.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But Palace winger Michael Olise produced a brilliant piece of individual skill to chop inside and curl past Thomas Kaminski from a tight angle to level within two minutes.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Striker Jacob Brown put the Hatters back in front again when he turned home a pinpoint Chiedozie Ogbene pass from close range in the 81st minute.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13">The Eagles lost Eberechi Eze</span><strong><span class="tm17">, </span></strong><span class="tm13">who injured his ankle, and Cheick Doucoure, who were forced off in the second half - the latter being carried off on a stretcher.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13">Luton boss Rob Edwards doesn't want his players ‘having a party’ after that dramatic late winner</span><span class="tm9">. ‘I don’t want the players having a party,’ he said.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Plymouth vs Sunderland - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Plymouth 2 Sunderland 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Morgan Whittaker's excellent strike gave the hosts the lead having held out after a number of early chances for Sunderland before Finn Azaz finished well to double the lead.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Jobe Bellingham struck a Plymouth post shortly before half-time and Trai Hume also headed against the woodwork just after the restart as Sunderland started the second period well.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Bali Mumba had two good chances to add to Argyle's tally as the Pilgrims claimed the win.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Portsmouth vs Blackpool - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Portsmouth 0 Blackpool 4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Whaaat!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Owen Dale, Jack Beesley , CJ Hamilton and Albie Morgan scored the goals as 10-man Pompey were routed by Bolton.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The Seasiders took the lead in the ninth minute as Hamilton crossed for the unmarked Dale to find the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The home side should have equalised midway through the first half but new signing Josh Martin could not beat goalkeeper Dan Grimshaw in a one-on-one situation.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Grimshaw then produced a stunning push out from Marvin Ekpiteta's sliced attempted clearance a few minutes later.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackpool made it two 11 minutes into the second half as Karamoko Dembele's shot was deflected in by Jake Beesley.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Things got worse for Pompey when skipper Joe Morrell received a second yellow card and was sent off in the 64th minute.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Hamilton got a third 16 minutes from time and substitute Morgan sealed the rout with three minutes remaining.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon vs Mansfield - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Swindon 2 Mansfield 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">BOOOO!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon carved out the first big chance as Dan Kemp clipped a cross to Remeao Hutton on the edge of the area. He looked to volley the ball first time but Christy Pym got across
his line to make the save.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Town then took the lead after 37 minutes when Kemp clipped a free-kick into the path of Jake Young, whose volley spun away from Pym and into the back of the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The Stags almost levelled up before the break as Rhys Oates broke into space down the left and picked out Aaron Lewis, but his first-time effort was well saved by Murphy Mahoney.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Mansfield were then level four minutes after the break as half-time substitute Lucas Akins raced in behind Swindon and finished low into the corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Deep into stoppage time, Young won it for Swindon as he tapped home from close range after Charlie Austin's header had come back off the crossbar.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh dear. Shall we give The Grambler a chance to make amends? Of course we shall...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Norwich vs Preston - Home win - 19/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Stoke vs Sheffield Wed - Home win - Evens</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Orient vs Derby - Away win - 19/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Peterborough vs Oxford - Home win - 20/23</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Wycombe vs Shrewsbury - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm18"></span><em><u><span class="tm19">£12.90</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">That’s better... not too whopping, but whopping enough.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm22">1. </span><span class="tm22">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Santo Domingo, Equador in 2001. A defensive midfielder, I began my senior career at Independiente del Valle, before moving to Brighton. I recently moved to Chelsea for
the highest ever transfer fee between British clubs.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Answer - </span><span class="tm9">Moisés Caicedo</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which country has qualified for the UEFA European Championships in 2024 for the first time in its history?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Albania</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who is the last man to have won the FA Cup as both a player and a manager?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Mikel Arteta</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Aston Villa has plans to upgrade Villa Park. Its current capacity is 42,530; what is the planned capacity for the stadium after redevelopment.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - 50,000</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram? Why not. Here’s an English footballer...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">HIP FONDLE</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Phil Foden</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s have five for this week...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Barcelona in 1995. A goalkeeper, I began my career at Blackburn Rovers before moving to Brentford. I am currently on loan to another Premier League club. I have been
capped for Spain three times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which club plays its home games at Portman Road?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who is the only man to have won the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup and Scottish League as a player and as a manager?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which is the last club to have joined the (English) Football League for the first time?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram; this time a Scottish player...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">SENSE OUR GAMES</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><u><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></u></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£74,057</u></i></span></span></h1><p class="Normal tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">You may have spotted that the figure has been boosted significantly from the last edition of your favourite ill-informed blog. The reason is that last week we ran another Singalongabingo which raised nearly £1,400 for the fund. Thanks to everybody who came along to enjoy a terrific, fun-filled night.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am grateful to a Mr N. Innes who prompted this week’s finishing piece, Eric Idle’s brilliant parody of the story of The
Beatles, or in this case, The Rutles. Neil Innes wrote all the songs that you hear and every one could have been an actual Beatles tune, so perfect is his mimicry. I make no apologies for using this on more than one occasion,
but it precedes any spoof rock documentaries such as This is Spinal Tap or The Bad News Bears and, in my view, is better than either of them. Ladeez and genullum, please enjoy </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEwySvgfwLE"><i>All You Need is Cash.</i></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm13">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-71374489852956257402023-11-25T11:33:00.001+00:002023-11-27T13:05:31.184+00:00Post 492 - Grambling with goats?<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;">What a pity Tom Daley isn't a decent footballer, he would have added a certain grace to penalty appeals.</span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;">H. Kane.</span></p><p class="Normal tm7"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJR69IW2JW1WUNvKHwFx3gZ-W75GUW8CxEBkAH8vmgp0FmE4FJ-fSy2R1eFSZE1FtEqVsCL9iCGZKQO9SZJAH5pCHIdEhxcfcVOapxDuoyYHtLyaQHQEZQ-MCH66EQ27zoJ_sOknIsPbCx9X5aRRJtkLiznnjjeEUcTnp3AITcvMl8Uwww0PCoq_sCZ4/s506/diving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJR69IW2JW1WUNvKHwFx3gZ-W75GUW8CxEBkAH8vmgp0FmE4FJ-fSy2R1eFSZE1FtEqVsCL9iCGZKQO9SZJAH5pCHIdEhxcfcVOapxDuoyYHtLyaQHQEZQ-MCH66EQ27zoJ_sOknIsPbCx9X5aRRJtkLiznnjjeEUcTnp3AITcvMl8Uwww0PCoq_sCZ4/s320/diving.jpg" width="304" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Nice jumper, Harry</span></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Before you read this week’s Story Time, please take the time to watch this rather silly advertisement. Yes, I know last week’s edition of your favourite ill-informed blog
was also linked to adverts... sort of... but this is different. Click on the link to see this ad... while you still have the chance. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><u><a href="https://vimeo.com/495307253"><span style="font-size: large;">Toyota Hilux ad.</span></a></u></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">While I still have the chance? Whatever do you mean, I hear you ask.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Right, first of all, I don't want you to think that thegrambler.com has sold out Toyota and is now being sponsored. Perish the thought.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">No, the reason I invite you to watch it is that, soon, you won't be able to see this advertisement. Why not? Because it has been banned.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It has been banned because the 'herd' of cars drives through a river. Sorry pardon excuse me? What is the problem with that, I ask myself. There isn't one, I answer
myself. [That's worrying; talking to yourself. Is it? Yes. - Ed.] Oh yes, there is a problem. Apparently, it condones behaviour that is harmful to the environment.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">I'm thinking a lot of people must have been very angry to have complained in such numbers that an advertisement has been pulled. How many do you think?
Thousands? Lower. Hundreds? Lower. Dozens? Lower. The figure is precisely one. Just one complaint has been filed and the ad which, in my view, sensibly shows that the vehicle in question is excellent on rough terrain, has
been axed. Wait a minute, is that not what buyers of such cars want to see? Good off road capabilities?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Nope. Not allowed. Somebody, who has probably never even sat in a ‘working’ vehicle, sees fit to complain about a vehicle being shown doing
what a 4x4 vehicle does best and the ad gets taken off the air? Daft, I calls it.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Okay then, what about other ads that should be banned? There are loads, but, it being Christmas, we are into the season of festive adverts. Think of all
those ads from supermarkets promoting their wares. Often, we see a table groaning under the weight of enough food to feed a biblical tribe. Surely, that is wrong when half the world's population hasn't got enough to
eat. Indeed, half the population of Britain is probably starving given the proliferation of food banks that are now on the go. If nothing else, those laden tables are encouraging gluttony; that’s one of the seven deadly
sins</span><span class="tm9">, that is. No wonder there are so many obese people in the (so-called) developed world. Ban these ads.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Others promote the message that a certain rotund, bearded gentleman makes his way into children’s bedrooms in the middle of the night and empties his sack at the foot of their
beds*. Excuse me? Ban them.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">But the advertisement that most demands to be banned is that weird bloody thing from Virgin Media that is on at the moment. It features several cgi’ed goats hang-gliding
their way around various mountain passes. What the f*** is going on there? And what the f*** were the advertising execs on when they came up with that as a concept. Goats? Hang-gliding? That is just so damned creepy;
the stuff of nightmares. Ban them. Now.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">* Apologies to comedian David Mitchell for nicking his joke.<br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 25th of November? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andrew Carnegie 1835 - Businessman and philanthropist. He is apparently the richest American of all time (except he was Scottish) Worth $10.6 billion, allowing for inflation.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSxgPzIBkZ2dtyzZKc_mcOxzMg_4iYBGhFzEHf2NNBNgLjykuU6K8BwQNdXBf3SVtDuHvT_cdUhjIEPLV0Mqni6V2myow3pEj3vIDgROwjfmfCQxDJYODQFV21s3u1qvstlPgZa1TzYPjzizOAO53P95xHCHL1D2hptsIPxsuzEiHjx3W_TJX0H4ISKY/s590/andrew%20carnegie.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="493" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSxgPzIBkZ2dtyzZKc_mcOxzMg_4iYBGhFzEHf2NNBNgLjykuU6K8BwQNdXBf3SVtDuHvT_cdUhjIEPLV0Mqni6V2myow3pEj3vIDgROwjfmfCQxDJYODQFV21s3u1qvstlPgZa1TzYPjzizOAO53P95xHCHL1D2hptsIPxsuzEiHjx3W_TJX0H4ISKY/s320/andrew%20carnegie.jpg" width="267" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ahm no an American, awright pal?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Francis Durbridge 1912 - Screenwriter, novelist. Paul Temple, that was his creation.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Shelagh Fraser 1920 - Actress. Jean Ashton in </span><em><span class="tm8">A Family at War</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Louie Ramsay 1929 - Actress. Dora Wexford in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Ruth Rendell Mysteries</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Harry Landis 1931 - Actor. Lou Morris in </span><em><span class="tm8">Friday Night Dinner</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">William McIlvanney 1936 - Writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gerald Seymour 1941 - Writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Paul Copley 1944 - Actor. Peter Quinlan in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Lakes</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Bev Bevan 1944 - Drummer with The Move and ELO. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tK8YleEhYCI">Night of Fear.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Robert Wass aka Bobby Knutt 1945 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alan Rough 1951 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Charles Kennedy 1959 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Steve Rothery 1959 - Musician. Geetarist with Marillion. A clip? Why, soitenly. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gjj95GDleyE">You're Gone.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Blythe Duff 1962 - Actress. Jackie Reid in </span><em><span class="tm8">Taggart</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dougray Scott 1965 - Actor. Matt Busby in </span><em><span class="tm8">United</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Kelly</span><span class="tm9"> 1965 - </span><span class="tm9">Peileadóir. Ex-Motherwell, tá a fhios agat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dominic Cummings 1971 - He’s a political strategist, apparently.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Eilish McColgan 1990 - Runny bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alex Bain 2001 - Simon Barlow in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Gram Gramblan,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was so nice to hear the very first single by your group, The Move. We understand that a song by your good selves was the first tune ever played on Radio 1 in 1967. Could you please
enlighten us and tell us which song it was?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours in anticipation,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXQFGAGHIP4">Flo Ursin, Dee Rayne.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Blodrakes fare? We won. And lost. Again. £1.48 back from our £2.20 stake. It didn’t help that one of the games selected by The Grambler
was void. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Bristol Rovers vs Fleetwood - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Void</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Notts County vs Bradford - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Notts County 4 Bradford 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Notts County survived a second-half comeback to beat Bradford.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">County produced a storming first-half display with David McGoldrick and Dan Crowley netting either side of Macaulay Langstaff's brace, but a Richard Brindley own goal and Jamie
Walker strike gave the hosts a nervy finish.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The deadlock was broken in the first five minutes when McGoldrick finished off a neat move down the right before Langstaff fortuitously doubled the hosts' advantage after deflecting
John Bostock's goal-bound effort home.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">He scored his second six minutes later after being slipped in by Crowley, who then made it 4-0 with a fine curling effort.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But the visitors came out fighting in the second half and Alex Gilliead's strike deflected off Brindley to reduce the deficit, before Walker fired beyond Sam Slocombe to set
up a tense ending.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Langstaff almost completed his hat-trick late on, with visiting striker Andy Cook also seeing a header saved on the line, as County kept (ex-Motherwell manager) Graham Alexander
waiting for his first win as Bradford boss.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Accrington vs Wrexham - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Accrington 2 Wrexham 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul Mullin hit the crossbar but Tommy Leigh's penalty after the break put Accrington ahead.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Rosaire Longelo sealed Stanley's win, netting close range after Arthur Okonkwo failed to hold on to Jack Nolan's shot.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Mullin's stoppage time penalty struck the underside of the crossbar.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Barrow vs Crawley - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Barrow 1 Crawley 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Dom Telford scored a second-half goal to earn Barrow victory against Crawley.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Telford fired in after 46 minutes. But Crawley believed the striker's match-winner should have been disallowed for a foul on Will Wright by Emile Acquah early in the build-up.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Referee Seb Stockbridge ignored the protests, however.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The Bluebirds should have been in front before the break. Acquah hit an upright and also missed a one-on-one with Luca Ashby-Hammond, while Elliot Newby also twice went close to
breaking the deadlock.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors dominated possession but created fewer chances. However, Barrow were grateful to keeper Paul Farman saving from Klaidi Lolos and Kellan Gordon, who shot wide with
just the keeper to beat a minute from time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Harrogate vs Swindon - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Harrogate 1 Swindon 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors took a first-half lead courtesy of striker Jake Young's goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Young had threatened twice before opening the scoring in the 25th minute - hitting the roof of the stand with a long-range effort and firing across the face of the goal after bursting
past home defenders Rod McDonald and Anthony O'Connor down the right flank.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But his third effort - a thumping 25-yard strike following Dan Kemp's forward pass - gave goalkeeper Jonathan Mitchell little chance as it rocketed into his top-left corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">An open first half also saw two Sam Folarin efforts and Abraham Odoh force Murphy Mahoney into smart saves at the other end.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">After the break, Odoh went close again before Jack Muldoon levelled midway through the second period.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The 34-year-old drilled a low edge-of-the-box drive in off Mahoney's left-hand upright after Folarin had exchanged passes with Odoh.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Folarin should have gone on to win the game late on, but shot weakly at Mahoney after racing clear on the away goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">That was last week; what has The Grambler randomly predicted for us this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Burnley vs West Ham - Away win - 21/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Luton vs Crystal Palace - Away win - 21/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Plymouth vs Sunderland - Away win - 21/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Portsmouth vs Blackpool - Home win - 11/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon vs Mansfield - Away win - 19/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #800180; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm18"></span><em><u><span class="tm19">£15.38</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh dear, that’s a bit too whopping for my liking. Nice if it comes off, though.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm22">1. </span><span class="tm22">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Utrecht in 1964. A striker, my career was split between two clubs, Ajax and AC Milan. I scored 128 goals for Ajax and 91 for Milan. I was named FIFA World Player of the
Year in 1992. I won the Ballon d’Or three times. In 1992 I was the first player to score four goals in a Champions League match. I was capped 58 times and helped the Netherlands win UEFA Euro 1988, where I also won
the Golden Boot. My career was cut short by an ankle injury and I retired aged just 28.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Marco van Basten</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Italian player has scored the most Premier League goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Paolo Di Canio (66)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who was the first footballer to receive a knighthood?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Stanley Matthews</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the Keepmoat Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Doncaster Rovers (the stadium is now named after the club sponsor, so is also known as Eco-Power Stadium.)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Here’s another anagram. Who was this English player? </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">VAR FITS CORNER</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Trevor Francis</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Shall we have five for this week? Yes, let’s...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Santo Domingo, Equador in 2001. A defensive midfielder, I began my senior career at Independiente del Valle, before moving to Brighton. I recently moved to Chelsea for
the highest ever transfer fee between British clubs.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which country has qualified for the UEFA European Championships in 2024 for the first time in its history?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who is the last man to have won the FA Cup as both a player and a manager?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Aston Villa has plans to upgrade Villa Park. Its current capacity is 42,530; what is the planned capacity for the stadium after redevelopment.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram? Why not. Here’s an English footballer...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">HIP FONDLE</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ooer, missus.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a> <span> </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u><span class="tm9">£72,534</span></u></i></b></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, no funnies this week. What? No funnies? No, because today sees a couple of sad anniversaries and, this being (supposedly) a football
blog, I feel I ought to mention them. Two of the world’s greatest ever footballers died on this day... 15 years apart, granted, but both died on the 25th of November. Both were most definitely in the ‘flawed
genius’ category. They were legends on the park, but their off-the-park activities tended to overshadow their greatness. One was a serial womaniser and alcoholic, the other a serial womaniser and drug addict. Is there
a link between footballing skills and sexual impropriety/substance abuse? Discuss.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The names of these two footballing giants? George Best who died on this day in 2005 and Diego Maradona who died in 2020.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">R.I.P. lads.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm13">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-56764787593839070892023-11-17T17:39:00.001+00:002023-11-17T17:39:29.836+00:00Post 491 - A gramble about the Beeb<p> </p><p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8"></span><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see. </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I literally take exception to the misuse of the word literally.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Literally yours,</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Hilda Oddbin.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’m livid. I am and all. What has caused this anger, I hear you ask. The British Broadcorping Casteration, that’s what. How so, you may ask. [They’re asking
a lot of questions today. - Ed.] Pull up a chair and oi’ll tell ee...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Right, first of all, the Beeb is not a private company; it is, instead, owned by Joe Public... me, and you, and him... and we fund the corporation by paying an annual subscription
called the licence fee. In the year ending 31 of March 2023, the BBC received an income of around £5.7 billion of which £3.7 billion was paid by us viewers as licence fee payments. Got that? Thus, because it receives
so much dosh, the BBC is able to produce its programmes without the annoying features known as advertisements. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mind you, I have seen as many as six ads for shows being shown on the various Beeb channels between two programmes. I can deal with that. Fair enough; they are entitled to plug
their own output.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What doesn’t sit so well with me is the Graham Norton style of chat show where guests are there simply to plug their book/TV programme/film/perfume/range of clothes (Delete
as applicable.). That has been going on for years. I recall an episode of the Michael Parkinson chat show when the guest was David Niven and the topic of conversation was his autobiography, The Moon’s a Balloon. That
was it. All just a big advert for his book. Actually, the book was already a big seller, but this probably helped shift another few hundred thousand copies.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What annoys me even more than celebrities using the Beeb to advertise, basically, themselves, is when there is advertising on news bulletins. To me, news should be about that which
is happening around us. It should not be about the latest Operatic production/Andrew Lloyd Webber musical/Disney film. (Delete as inapplicable.)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, I have moaned on about such items before, but, just last week, the ‘I am a big star, please advertise my book’ treatment hit a new low... Well, two new lows, actually.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The first was a news item about Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr ‘unearthing’ a compact cassette of John Lennon singing a song that was not deemed decent enough to ever
make it onto a record. Frankly, the sound quality was abysmal and it is no wonder the song got forgotten about; it was dreadful. Obviously, Paulie and Bongo thought otherwise and have realised that they could make shed-loads
of money by tarting it up a bit and adding some instrumentation. That done, the record has been released as a forgotten Beatles’ gem. Aye, right.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">To promote the single release, they also got Peter Jackson (he of Lord of the Rings fame) to direct an accompanying video featuring the late Beatles John Lennon and George Harrison
being cleverly superimposed on new film of Paul and Dingo. I say cleverly, there are bits where it is pretty obviously AI footage.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Peter Jackson has also directed a documentary to promote the song. These facts were all imparted in a news bulletin. That isn’t news; that is blatant advertising, mate.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Worse was to come. Barbra Streisand is a singer/actress who is probably as wealthy as the remaining Beatles... Well, Ringo, certainly. Apart from music videos, she has produced
little of interest for over ten years. Until now. She has written a book: her autobiography. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">All well and good; no doubt she will be doing the book-plugging tour of every chat show that will have her. Obviously not just that, because somebody at the Beeb has decided that
this rich lady writing a book was a newsworthy event, so she was interviewed on the BBC’s main news programme.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, that annoyed me, but I can cope with it. There has been much more blatant plugging on the Beeb. What really bugged me though, was that nothing of importance or even relevance
was talked about. The only things that we learned was that she wasn’t a very happy person and... this really is trivia worthy of a mention on The One Show or Loose Women... that Siri (the voice recognition app) couldn’t
pronounce her name correctly, but now can. Well, thank goodness she told us that; I couldn’t have slept without learning that nugget of (non)information.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Make that three new lows. This was where story time was supposed to end but, this week, the Beeb are at it again. Apparently, that very famous, and very rich, actor, Tom Hanks
has opened an exhibition dedicated to the US’s ‘journey to the moon’. Tonight, I watched the news bulletin from this once hallowed institution as Mr. Hanks’ exhibition was given a free advertisement.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Sorry, BBC, but you are meant to be an impartial organisation and that impartiality is made possible because you do not show advertisements and do not rely on advertising revenue.
To me, this is very much about advertising</span><span class="tm13"> whether money has changed hands or not. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">But, come on, we all know that there is no such thing as a free launch. What is being exchanged for these ‘free’ plugs if it isn’t money?
Mmm? Answer me that. </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13">I think I may have the answer. [You bloody would have. - Ed.] Freebies. Have a few records (Yes, I know that 7” singles no longer exist, but I’m sure you get the gist.)/books/tickets to an exhibition
been passed out to some execs at the Beeb? I couldn’t possibly say, but you are welcome to draw your own conclusion.<br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 11th of November? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Charles Penrose 1873 - Entertainer. Famous for... </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hI1nPd7hezM">this.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Iain Macleod 1913 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ivy Benson 1913 - Bandleader.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Robert Carr 1916 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Roy Jenkins 1920 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ron Greenwood 1921 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">George Blake 1922 - Spy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">June Whitfield 1925 - Actress. June Fletcher in </span><em><span class="tm8">Happy Ever After</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Dreja 1945 - Musician. A Yardbird. Here are the Yardbirds (featuring a certain James Page) with </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzBwlLRM1QI">Over, Under, Sideways, Down.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bryan ‘Pop’ Robson 1945 - Foo’y blurk.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andy Partridge 1953 - Musician. Founder member of XTC. Here’s a nice wee toon, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VSFU0jKVYs">Love on a Farmboy's Wages</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Bruce Woolley 1953 - Musician. He has been involved in many musical collaborations over the years. Here is the Radio Science Orchestra with </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unISWt-xAUc">Atom Age Girl.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Craig Marsh 1956 - Musician. A founding member of Human League, he later formed the British Electric Foundation and Heaven 17. A clip? But of course. Here’s the BEF with
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhnQxACV6mE">Groove Thang</a> from the album Music for Listening To. Isn’t that the most perfect title for an album?</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Easter 1959 - Actor. Mac Nightingale in </span><em><span class="tm8">Hollyoaks</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andy Hughes 1965 - Musician. One time member of The Orb. He was involved with this tune, the band’s biggest hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWvI9tmmcP0">Toxygene.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nick Blackman 1989 - Footy bloke. Ex-Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jamaal Lascelles 1993 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ellie Simmonds 1994 - Swimmy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ryan Kent 1996 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, now what about any famous or notorious individuals born on the 18th of November?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Katie Johnson 1878 - Actress. Her only starring role was as Mrs Wilberforce in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Ladykillers</span></em><span class="tm9"> when she was aged 76; a role which won her the British Film Academy award for best actress.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4BAa106RepktmtTGgzRyUCTDJpqdblZTf8aP80VhR-nV6woD-6zUxOTR7HsQHla83L6jQ48x5sTKffxFA5sTK6fud-ynyK4O3vzjj2kfdjDUxx27nIsnnVd9J5tqIDIlMv847nhQMvpWO87LeBidhHargFeBc3ktln3uPNLjW-1k4_xfb1CsyS4OM9U/s670/Katie%20Johnson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="505" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4BAa106RepktmtTGgzRyUCTDJpqdblZTf8aP80VhR-nV6woD-6zUxOTR7HsQHla83L6jQ48x5sTKffxFA5sTK6fud-ynyK4O3vzjj2kfdjDUxx27nIsnnVd9J5tqIDIlMv847nhQMvpWO87LeBidhHargFeBc3ktln3uPNLjW-1k4_xfb1CsyS4OM9U/s320/Katie%20Johnson.jpg" width="241" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Katie Johnson aka Mrs Wilberforce aka Mrs Lop-sided</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Wyndham Lewis 1882 - Painter, writer and critic.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alec Issigonis 1906 - Car designer. Designed the Morris Minor and the Austin/Morris Mini.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bobby Thompson 1911 - Comedian. Known as The Little Waster.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian Huggett 1938 - Golfy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jimmy Crawford 1937 - Singer. Here is his hit from 1961, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWP3lw99IdM">I Love how You Love Me.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian McCulloch 1939 - Actor. Greg Preston in </span><em><span class="tm8">Survivors</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bill Giles 1939 - TV weatherman.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Pitman 1939 - Journalist, TV producer and documentary film maker.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Hemmings 1941 - Actor. Dildano in </span><em><span class="tm8">Barbarella</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Rainbow 1946 - Musician. A clip? Indeed. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eszzNur-F-s">Give Me What I Cry For.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joe Corrigan 1948 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Graham Parker 1950 - Musician. With his band, The Rumour, he had a hit or two. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucGsJ8-DBEg">Temporary Beauty.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Parr 1954 - Musician. Would you like another clip? Aye, go on then. Here’s the very non-PC </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syhrz_AMLQU">Naughty Naughty.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jake Brockman 1955 - Musician. Known as the fifth Bunnyman as he had been associated with the band throughout the 1980s before becoming a full-time member in 1989. Have another </span><span class="tm16">clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tc1J7y4xIdA">Nothing Lasts Forever.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Shirley Strong 1958 - Athleticky bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Kim Wilde 1960 - Singer. Here’s another clip for you, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6Agwu_5J14">You Came.</a> [Ooer, missus! - Ed.] Behave yourself.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stephen Moffat 1961 - TV writer and producer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul Smith 1961 - TV writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Peter Schmeichel 19</span><span class="tm9">63 - </span><span class="tm9">fodbold målmand.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Nadia Sawalha 1964 - Actres</span><span class="tm9">s and TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jenny Jay 1967 - Actress. Carmen in </span><em><span class="tm8">Bread</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gavin Peacock 1967 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Anthony McPartlin 1975 - Not Dec.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lucy Akhurst 1975 - Actress. Sophie in </span><em><span class="tm8">Spaced</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Matthew Baynton 1980 - Screenwriter, actor and musician. Member of the </span><em><span class="tm8">Horrible Histories</span></em><span class="tm9"> troupe which has been together for that programme as well as </span><em><span class="tm8">Yonderland</span></em><span class="tm9"> and </span><em><span class="tm8">Ghosts</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Dawson 1983 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Marc Albrighton 1989 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear (the late) Jake Grambleman,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was nice to hear a song from your band, Echo and the Bunnymen. I was wondering what was the first top ten hit from them was. Can you help?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours earnestly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMplIrSlg8E">Dirk Utter.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Korblades fare? We won. And lost. 88 pees back from our £2.20 stake. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Birmingham vs Ipswich - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Birmingham 2 Ipswich 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">After the home side led 2-0 with only 11 minutes left, Ipswich substitute Marcus Harness pulled one back.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Harness then scored again on 89 minutes to level the score - and though that was enough to earn Rooney his first point from his fourth game in charge, it still felt like a defeat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Birmingham led on 13 minutes after Jay Stansfield's fifth goal of the season - and that was doubled six minutes after the break when Cameron Burgess put through his own net
under pressure from Stansfield.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But Ipswich got one back on 79 minutes when Freddie Ladapo's effort was saved by goalkeeper John Ruddy but the rebound fell to fellow substitute Harness.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Harness then got his second to stretch second-placed Ipswich's unbeaten run to 10 league games - and take them a point closer to leaders Leicester City.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Despite their three-game losing run since previous boss John Eustace was sacked, Birmingham had the protective cushion of a great record against Ipswich, who have won only once
in their past 19 visits to St Andrew's.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Rooney had opted to make another four changes following last weekend's 3-1 defeat at Southampton - and the hosts went 1-0 up when Juninho Bacuna's through ball let in Stansfield,
who swivelled inside the box and Ipswich keeper Vaclav Hladky failed to prevent the recalled striker scoring.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Plymouth vs Middlesbrough - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Plymouth 3 Middlesbrough 3</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar! Again!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Plymouth Argyle twice came from a goal down to win a point as they held Middlesbrough to an entertaining 3-3 draw in the Championship.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Josh Coburn put Boro ahead from close range midway through the first half before Bali Mumba levelled after a good passage of play from the hosts.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Finn Azaz's superb effort put Argyle ahead at the break, but Boro responded as first Coburn converted after his penalty kick was saved and then Sam Greenwood put them in front
soon after.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But Morgan Whittaker levelled the scores once again as his curling free kick from the left evaded everyone and skipped off the wet turf into the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Millwall vs Southampton - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Millwall 0 Southampton 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Substitute Ryan Fraser scored in added time to give Southampton victory at Millwall.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Fraser popped up at the near post to grab the three points in an otherwise forgettable game at The Den.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Goalkeeper Bartosz Bialkowski looked to have earned Millwall a vital point with a brilliant save to deny Kamaldeen Sulemana.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But he hadn’t.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Arbroath vs Partick - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Arbroath 1 Partick 3</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Aidan Fitzpatrick scored in each half, and Brian Graham added a third, to earn three points for the Jags.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Kerr McInroy was the supplier for both of Fitzpatrick's goals, while Graham took advantage of a slack pass back to complete the win.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Stevie Lawless missed a penalty and Harry Milne had an effort disallowed but that mattered little in the end.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Neither did Jermaine Hylton's late consolation.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Cove Rangers vs Hamilton - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Cove Rangers 1 Hamilton 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">No match report. This is Scotland, mate. We don’t matter up here.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Never mind grumbling, let’s have some grambling. (Do you see what I did there?) What has The Grambler come up with this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Bristol Rovers vs Fleetwood - Home win - Evens</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Notts County vs Bradford - Home win - 17/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Accrington vs Wrexham - Away win - 20/21</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Barrow vs Crawley - Home win - 19/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Harrogate vs Swindon - Away win - 19/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #ff00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm19"></span><em><u><span class="tm20">£13.02</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Ten pees less whopping than last time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm23">1. </span><span class="tm23">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in North Richmond, New South Wales in 1972. A goalkeeper, I played 366 games for Middlesbrough and 172 for Fulham and hold the record for the most Premier League appearances
of any Australian. I was capped for Australia 109 times over a 20 year period.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Mark Schwarzer</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Nigerian has scored the most Premier League goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Yakubu Ayegbeni, known as Yakubu or ‘The Yak’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who is the only player to have been capped for his country more than 200 times?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Cristiano Ronaldo (203) S’obvious, really.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the Ashton Gate Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Bristol City</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram? Why not. Here’s a Scottish footballer...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">MAD CHASE</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Che Adams</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Would you like five for this week? Of course you would. [Have they any option? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Utrecht in 1964. A striker, my career was split between two clubs, Ajax and AC Milan. I scored 128 goals for Ajax and 91 for Milan. I was named FIFA World Player of the
Year in 1992. I won the Ballon d’Or three times. In 1992 I was the first player to score four goals in a Champions League match. I was capped 58 times and helped the Netherlands win UEFA Euro 1988, where I also won
the Golden Boot. My career was cut short by an ankle injury and I retired aged just 28.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Italian player has scored the most Premier League goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who was the first footballer to receive a knighthood?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the Keepmoat Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Here’s another anagram. Who was this English player? [Ah... Past tense. Is that a clue? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">VAR FITS CORNER</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Easy peasy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£72,385</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Ms. J. Whitfield who provides this week’s concluding link. You may remember June Whitfield as Edina’s
mum in </span><em><span class="tm24">Absolutely Fabulous</span></em><span class="tm13"> from the 1990s until the 2000s. You may remember her as Terry Scott’s missus in </span><em><span class="tm24">Happy Ever After</span></em><span class="tm13"> and </span><em><span class="tm24">Terry and June</span></em><span class="tm13"> [They must have been scratching their heads to come up with that title. - Ed.] Ahem... from the 1970s and 80s. But June Whitfield had been a star long before those shows. She first achieved stardom not on
the small screen (as they used to term TVs) but on the radio. She joined the hit radio show </span><em><span class="tm24">Take It From Here</span></em><span class="tm13"> in 1953. The show featured a section which translates as </span><em><span class="tm24">Les Miserables</span></em><span class="tm13">. Seriously. It was called The Glums and it featured Jimmy Edwards as Pa Glum, June Whitfield as Eth and Dick Bentley as her gormless boyfriend, Ron Glum... He lacked any gorm, whatever. Let’s have a little clip to finish. Altogether
now... </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tP6EG6GtRMg">Take it from here...</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm13">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-37534582820654356242023-11-04T14:51:00.000+00:002023-11-04T14:51:02.030+00:00Post 490 - Remember The Grambler on the 5th of November<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I take exception to the Manchester City player, Erwin Haarland, being hailed as the greatest ever footballer. Surely there are many other players worthy of the accolade.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">K. Dalgleish (Sir).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">After last week’s revelations about the crossdressing Grambler, this week’s story might be a bit of a letdown for you.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I thought I would give you some tales of the British tradition of bonfire night or Guy Fawkes Night. It is an annual custom that takes place on the 5th of November, a date we Brits
are encouraged to remember. It celebrates the failed gunpowder plot of 1605 when a group of 13 individuals tried to assassinate King James the 6th of Scotland, aka James the 1st of England, by attempting to blow up the House
of Lords during the state opening of parliament. Without going into the reasons of why the event took place... it is all to do with Catholicism vs Protestantism... I will add that all the conspirators were either shot or
executed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The odd thing for me is that we remember Guy Fawkes, rather than the leader of the revolt, Robert Catesby. I suppose Robert Catesby Night wouldn’t have the same ring to it.
</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The way we celebrate the event is to build bonfires and burn an effigy of Guy Fawkes on it. How sick is that? The daft part of it is that Guy Fawkes was not put to death in this
gruesome way; he was, slightly less gruesomely, hanged.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">He was actually meant to be hanged, drawn and quartered, but avoided the horrific drawing and quartering by dying from the hanging part of his ‘sentence’.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Why the bonfire? I honestly don’t know. Why Guy Fawkes? Ditto. I just know that on the 5th of November every year anyone with pyromaniac tendencies gets free rein to set
fire to things. Those things being not just bonfires, but fireworks, which make more sense than bonfires given that they contain a modicum of gunpowder. Fireworks are now sold (legally) only to adults, but it wasn’t
always the case...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">When I were a lad [Uh oh, Hovis time. - Ed.] anybody could go into a shop from about September onwards and buy fireworks. Even small children. Strangely, newsagents stocked fireworks;
at least, my local newsagent did. That was where, as an eight-year child, I would buy penny bangers. They did what it said on the tin. They exploded. Loudly. I could even, as an eight-year-old, buy the matches to set
light to these miniature bombs. You are probably thinking that a penny banger couldn’t have been dangerous in any way if they were being sold to juveniles. Not true. They could be very dangerous, especially if they
exploded near flammable material.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Any road up, this eight-year-old was savvy enough to know the rules about fireworks... light the blue touch paper and retire immediately. The terminology was a bit strange to me,
but I knew what it meant... light the thing and get to fu... get as far away as possible, but obviously not so far away that I couldn’t hear the bang.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">My initial use of bangers followed those rules. I always retired to a safe place and I also was wise enough to know that I should never return to a firework that hadn’t ‘gone
off’. However, as I got older, I got more gallus (trans: bold) and would do things like lighting the touch paper while I held the banger (Stupid, I know.) and throwing the lit firework into a place where its noise might
be amplified. Disused garages, bins, even (I’m ashamed to say) into the lobby of a block of flats. Mind you, that did create one hell of a noise.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It so happened that my parents had a small caravan on a site near Inverary. The site is still there, but is totally different to the way it was when I was small. Then, there were
a few dozen ‘vans scattered about an old army camp from WWII. Behind the caravans was overgrown weeds and woodland. This was the playground for me and friends I had made at the caravan park. These friends all enjoyed
the end-of-season rituals of setting bonfires on the beach, using driftwood and anything we could carry from the woods.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">We also had a huge supply of bangers and, as this had been an army camp there were many disused buildings dotted about the wooded areas. Here, we would have mock battles where
we would split into two groups which would each set up camp in one of these outbuildings. We then had to try and ambush the other group’s building by chucking a lit banger, grenade like, through one of the broken windows.
If, however, they spotted your approach, a banger lobbed in your direction meant that you were ‘dead’. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The other group would be trying the same tactic. The winner was the first to successfully throw a banger into the opposition’s hideout. Very childish, but great fun to a
group of 11 to 13 year olds. Very childish and very dangerous, as these buildings often contained a lot of flammable material and, as the buildings were weatherproof, such material was tinder dry. A recipe for disaster.
Did we understand that? Probably not. Did we care? Nah. We lived to tell the tale and I don’t recall anyone ever being injured.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">One escapade could have caused injury to all of us. On this occasion, I will blame my older brother who didn’t take part in our silly war games, but was aware of what was
going on. Probably because I told him. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What did he do? He thought our playing with piddling little bangers was all a bit trifling. He came up with an idea that none of us younger ones had even heard of... a Molotov
cocktail. What, you may ask, is a Molotov cocktail. It is better known as a petrol bomb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">So, we all did our bit to make this actual weapon of war. A glass bottle was required. Easy. There were loads in those dens in the woods. A piece of rag was also needed. No
problem. Again, a den in the woods had something amongst the rubbish. Finally, we needed the petrol itself. This was surprisingly easy to obtain, because many of us had our own dinghies and some were lucky enough to have
an outboard motor. What do they need to operate? Yes indeed. Petrol. We each syphoned off a little from our engines’ little fuel tanks... without parents’ knowledge, I hasten to add. I don’t know what
excuse we would have given if we had been caught.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Any road up, we made our bomb; a bottle full of petrol with a rag ‘wick’ stuffed in the top. Now, where could we deploy it? About half a mile from the site was a piece
of wasteland. It was probably still part of the wartime army camp, but it looked as if all the buildings had been destroyed. Deliberately? Who knows. All that was left at this part was a long wall about six feet high.
Nothing else, other than concrete bases. It was the ideal spot for our bomb. It was away from our parents’ gaze and it was well away from anything flammable.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">My brother must have looked like the Pied Piper as he led a group of laughing kids several years younger than him, out of the caravan site, along a disused road to the wall in question.
</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Firstly my brother ensured that us younguns were standing well back from the wall. Then, he set the rag in the neck of the bottle alight. Without waiting too long for the whole
thing to explode in his hand he chucked the bottle with its flaming wick at the wall. Even from our vantage point well back, we could feel the heat as the now flaming petrol engulfed the wall.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Though we were all whooping with delight at what we had seen, I think we were all a bit frightened by the experience. We probably curtailed our mock battles from that time onwards.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Maybe my brother’s bomb-making exercise had all been aimed at teaching us a valuable lesson... or did he just enjoy scaring us sh*tl*ss?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">To end this week’s story, I am reminded of something said by the founder of this august blog when his knowledge of world history deserted him. He and his good lady wife were
heading to the good old U. S. of A. at the beginning of November for their honeymoon. He said he was looking forward to going to the States for the 5th of November, because Americans always do fireworks so well. I think
it might have been his missus who pointed out that there weren’t likely to be any fireworks on that night... Why would Americans celebrate a crazy, uniquely British custom? They’ve got their own crazy customs
at other times of the year.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 4th of November? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Henry V 1470 - The well-known king (of England, not Scotland).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">James James 1832 - Welsh composer (whose parents had little by way of imagination). You may not have heard of him, but you may well have heard his most famous composition, </span><span class="tm16">Hen Wlad fy Nhadau aka </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwdZOHm8r-Y">Land of my Fathers.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Marguerite Patten 1915 - TV chef.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Richard Bryce aka Dickie Valentine 1929 - Singer. A clip? Here’s one to put you the mood for the next big celebration, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xmavyqeJv0">Christmas Alphabet.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Harrison aka Clinton Ford 1931 - Singer. Here’s a song that reached number 22 in 1962, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NUqUKJOoIw">Fanlight Fanny.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joyce Blair 1932 - Hoofer. Lionel’s sis.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Derek Johnstone 1953 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Difford 1954 - Musician. A bit of Squeeze. Another clip? Why not. Here’s a Squeeze song for which he provided lead vocals, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ2cEc_TCH8">Cool for Cats.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">James Honeyman-Scott 1956 - Musician. Founding member of The Pretenders. I think another clip is called for. Here’s the band from 1981 performing </span><span class="tm9"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCJekcg-TxA">Louie Louie.</a> No, not that one.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kim Taylor aka Magenta Devine 1957 - TV presenter and journalist. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lena Zavaroni 1963 - Singer. Have a clip. Here she is aged just 13 singing a medley of songs on the 1976 </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63YoZZ9lt64">Royal Variety Show.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Shaun Williamson 1965 - Actor. Barry Evans in </span><em><span class="tm8">Eastenders</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Malandra Burrows 1965 - Actress. Kathy Glover in </span><em><span class="tm8">Emmerdale</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tim Vincent 1972 - Actor and TV presenter. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Louise Rednapp 1974 - Singer. One time member of Eternal. Here’s her most successful solo effort, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NI6G1LrIwec">2 Faced.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Robbie Winters 1974 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kevin McDonald 1988 - Fitba guy</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Chris Grambleford,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was nice to hear a song from your band, Squeeze. I was told that your last album, The Knowledge, has a song on it that has the same title as an old Fleetwood Mac hit. Which one?
Man of the World, maybe? Go Your Own Way, perhaps? Can you enlighten me, please?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours labelled with love,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRjSPgAUMWs">Albert Ross.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Arkblodes fare? We didn’t lose. Yes we did. I don’t call a return of 78 pees from our £2.20 stake a win. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Barnsley vs Fleetwood - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Barnsley 2 Fleetwood 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Corey O'Keefe salvaged a late point as Barnsley twice came from behind to draw with Fleetwood.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Junior Quitirna scored either side of (ex-Motherwell player) Devante Cole's first leveller before O'Keefe's last-gasp effort earned a share of the spoils.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors broke the deadlock in the third minute when Jack Marriott broke forward down the left, crossing to Quitirna who fired past Tykes goalkeeper Ben Killip.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Barnsley were awarded a spot-kick four minutes later when Cole was brought down by Fleetwood goalkeeper Jay Lynch.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Cole stepped up himself and saw his penalty saved, but reacted quickly to score the rebound.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Lee Johnson's side regained the lead in the 34th minute when Quitirna placed a 25-yard free-kick into the top-left corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Herbie Kane almost pulled his side level two minutes before the break. Receiving a pass from Nicky Cadden, the midfielder struck the woodwork from the edge of the box as he aimed
for the top-right corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Barnsley pushed for an equaliser and their pressure paid off two minutes from time when Kane's cross found O'Keefe to head beyond Lynch.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Oxford Utd. vs Wycombe - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Oxford Utd. 2 Wycombe 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar! Again!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Cameron Brannagan's stoppage-time penalty salvaged a point for Oxford against local rivals Wycombe at the Kassam Stadium.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">In a dramatic match featuring three second-half penalties, substitute Brannagan put away the crucial final spot-kick in the sixth minute of time added on after Luke Leahy had tripped
Mark Harris just inside the area.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Furious Oxford boss Liam Manning had earlier been shown a red card by referee Sebastian Stockbridge after Wanderers came from behind to lead thanks to two contested spot-kicks.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Ruben Rodrigues fired the U's in front in the 25th minute with a volleyed first-time finish from Marcus McGuane's cutback.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Wycombe levelled 11 minutes into the second half when Leahy planted his penalty into the bottom-right corner after McGuane had slipped inside the box and his hand knocked the ball.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Wanderers turned the game on its head when Brandon Hanlan drew a foul from keeper James Beadle on 81 minutes, and Leahy stepped up to convert his second penalty in almost the same
place.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">But Oxford were not to be denied as Brannagan made no mistake deep into stoppage time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Port Vale vs Cheltenham - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Port Vale 1 Cheltenham 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">A brace from captain Sean Long secured the Robins’ victory.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">After a cagey opening 20 minutes, Cheltenham began to apply some pressure and Vale goalkeeper Connor Ripley was forced into making a good save from Rob Street's attempt.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">But it was the hosts who went ahead in the 32nd minute, when Alfie Devine found the net with an acrobatic effort after skipper Nathan Smith guided a header from a corner to the
back post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Their lead lasted only 10 minutes though, with Long blasting home after latching onto a loose ball in the penalty area.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Elliot Bonds nearly put Cheltenham in front within moments of the second half starting, but his dipping long-range shot hit the crossbar.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors kept patiently probing and got their reward in the 66th minute as Long's deflected effort looped over Ripley and into the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Reading vs Portsmouth - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Reading 2 Portsmouth 3</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Yay! (At last)</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Lewis Wing and Charlie Savage had given Reading a shock lead with two goals in the space of four minutes midway through the first half.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Tino Anjorin, on loan from Chelsea, reduced the deficit before top-scorer Colby Bishop levelled things up at 2-2 in the ninth minute of first-half stoppage time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Terry Devlin then struck home what proved to be the winner just before the hour.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Reading had stunned the visitors with goals in the 23rd and 27th minute through crisp finishes from first Wing and then Savage.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">But Anjorin tucked home a cross from Paddy Lane soon after and, in stoppage time, Bishop knocked in his ninth league goal of the season.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Pompey grew frustrated early in the second period, before Devlin secured the points with a clinical strike after Bishop's clever nod-down at the far post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Wigan vs Shrewsbury - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Wigan 2 Shrewsbury 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Goals in either half from Stephen Humphrys and Callum Lang gave Wigan a 2-0 win as 10-man Shrewsbury were seen off in comfortable fashion at the DW Stadium.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors had been on the back foot for the entire game after seeing centre-back Chey Dunkley sent off inside four minutes for hauling down Thelo Aasgaard on the edge of the
box.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">After that, it was only ever a question of when and not if Wigan would break through.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">It was Humphrys who opened the scoring after 35 minutes when he was given too much time and space 20 yards from goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">After Shrews defender Mal Branning hit his own post, Humphrys inexplicably headed wide just after the hour mark from a yard out, before Jordan Jones cut inside and smacked a shot
against the Shrewsbury crossbar.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">But the respite was only temporary as Lang nodded home fellow substitute Callum McManaman's cross in the 66th minute - less than 60 seconds after both men had entered the fray.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">Reports supplied by PA Media</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh well, not the best week for The Grambler. Let’s see what he/she/it has randomly selected this week. All matches take place at 3pm on Saturday the 4th of November.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Birmingham vs Ipswich - Away win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Plymouth vs Middlesbrough - Away win - 5/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Millwall vs Southampton - Away win - Evens</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Arbroath vs Partick - Away win - 6/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Cove Rangers vs Hamilton - Away win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm21"></span><em><u><span class="tm22">£13.12</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Ooer! A bit too whopping now.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm25">1. </span><span class="tm25">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Barnsley, Yorkshire in 1959. A defender, I began my senior career at Barnsley, before moves to Manchester City, Celtic, Lyon and finally Millwall. I was capped for Ireland
57 times. As a coach, I have managed (deep breath) Millwall, Rep. of Ireland, Sunderland, Wolves, Ipswich, Rep. of Ireland (again), APOEL, Cardiff City and Blackpool.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Mick McCarthy</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Talking of Ireland, which Irish player won Manchester City’s player of the year award for four seasons running?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Richard Dunne</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Swedish player has scored the most Premier League goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Freddie Ljungberg (48)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the Toughsheet Community Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Bolton Wanderers</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another word jumble? Why not. Here’s another footballer from the past.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">POSH LIP MONTH</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Phil Thompson</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did you fare? Too easy? Well try this week’s, then...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in North Richmond, New South Wales in 1972. A goalkeeper, I played 366 games for Middlesbrough and 172 for Fulham and hold the record for the most Premier League appearances
of any Australian. I was capped for Australia 109 times over a 20 year period.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Nigerian has scored the most Premier League goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who is the only player to have been capped for his country more than 200 times?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the Ashton Gate Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram? Why not. Here’s a Scottish footballer...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">MAD CHASE</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Easy peasy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. The total now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£72,375</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm19">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Mr. G. Byrne who gives us this week’s finishing link. Sort of. Gay Byrne is the man in question and he died
on the 4th of November 2019. He was a respected Irish interviewer who hosted </span><em><span class="tm20">The Late Late Show</span></em><span class="tm19"> for 37 years. He was a radio and TV legend in his native Ireland. In 1993, he had the honour of presenting a group of singers(?) to the world for their world premiere. It is clear what Mr Byrne thinks of the group. Please be prepared to cringe at Boyzone’s
first ever </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Odi8WxWJ4w4&t=6s">TV appearance.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUHWaRFcPbJ-39l6V0SGOplhWWIWa5wDn-mMZilhZ8EeIHXngnHriDxrk3SATXbMzGmMTYYJ1iOTCgv387jNXRMmzYyGFDqQZ60Iv8kzHb2-M3wm0ccPpjsPoLVcedEIYI9WAJR-xZSIeK88ZRlSHnKr4Kf0T4NDs_zZWf7BYCU8_A9b7sxZ4jF33YMg/s775/gay%20byrne.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="775" data-original-width="643" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUHWaRFcPbJ-39l6V0SGOplhWWIWa5wDn-mMZilhZ8EeIHXngnHriDxrk3SATXbMzGmMTYYJ1iOTCgv387jNXRMmzYyGFDqQZ60Iv8kzHb2-M3wm0ccPpjsPoLVcedEIYI9WAJR-xZSIeK88ZRlSHnKr4Kf0T4NDs_zZWf7BYCU8_A9b7sxZ4jF33YMg/s320/gay%20byrne.jpg" width="265" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Uncle Gay aka Gaybo aka Uncle Gaybo</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm19"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm19">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-2442111881792058142023-10-28T12:02:00.000+01:002023-10-28T12:02:15.778+01:00Post 489 - Trick or Gramble<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve often heard it asked what the best chat-up line is when you meet a girl. I don’t understand the problem; I just tell them my name, as in ‘Hello, I’m Rich.’
It always seems to go down well.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours faithfully,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">R. Attenborough (Sir).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Since we are approaching All Hallows’ Eve, I thought I would take a trip back down memory lane. [Hovis time? - Ed.] You betcha.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve told you about my most racist costume that my mother thought was the right thing for me to wear as a halloween costume; an Onion Johnnie outfit that was her idea of what
French men wore. I was five at the time so I’d never heard of racism. Wearing jeans, a stripey shirt and beret with a string of onions slung around me meant nothing to me but, my mother assured me, everyone would understand
the, I believe the word is, stereotype.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Fast forward a couple of years and mother was at it again. Her seven year old son would not be going out guising dressed as a cowboy or a footballer, like all the other boys in
the street. No, I would be going as... wait for it... Little Bo Peep. No, I protested, but my complaints, accompanied by snotty tears, had no effect. Little Bo Peep it was. Had she spent days making the costume for me
to refuse to wear it? Answering yes to that was, apparently, the wrong answer. The only concession she would make was that I could keep my own clothes on underneath the dress she had made.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The outfit was topped off with a forerunner of what is now known as a See-you-Jimmy hat. Sorry pardon excuse me? Let me explain. There was an unfathomably popular comedian in
Britain in the 1970s called Russ Abbott who would play ‘hilarious’ characters as part of his less than hilarious act. [I’m guessing you’re not a fan. - Ed.] One of these characters was supposed to
be a Scotsman wearing a tartan bunnet (Trans: hat) over ginger hair while shouting, in a poor attempt at a Scottish accent, ‘See you, Jimmy.’ Oh how we laughed. Okay, I didn’t, but plenty of people did
and some smart maker of cheap seaside tat realised that, by making a tartan hat with ginger hair already attached, a lot of money could be made selling these to holidaymakers in Blackpool (and other salubrious resorts). Probably
the sort of punter who would in former times have bought a ‘Kiss-me-quick’ hat. The entrepreneur even pinched Russ Abbott’s line to market them as the ‘See-you-Jimmy’ hat. So now you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Any road up, the bonnet which I was to wear with this ensemble also had the hair attached to it; only this hair was meant to be ringlets. Ye gods!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Luckily, the ringlets weren’t too well attached and promptly fell off the hat when I was putting this laughable get up on. I don’t know how they fell out; they just
did. ‘Too late to fix them now,’ I said innocently. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">My mum had also spent a while fashioning the accessory which would accompany the dress. I was supposed to be Little Bo Peep, remember. She had made a crook, a long-handled cane
with a loop for a handle. Think of the big stick a bishop might carry - his crozier; like that, only less ornate. She had gone to a lot of trouble with this and had even tied some of the dress material around it.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">'You look lovely,' my mother announced. 'Aye, well,' I replied.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was going to go guising with my mate, George, who lived a few doors away and grumpily headed to his house to get him.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">His dad opened the door. ‘You look... lovely,’ he announced. I think I could spot sarcasm even at that age. 'Aye, well.'</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">My mate came out of the house dressed as a cowboy. You see, mother? That’s what seven year old kids should dress as. ‘You look like a right fanny,’ opined my
pal. ‘Aye, well,’ I muttered.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, before I get too far into this tale of embarrassment, I did start the evening looking quite tidy in my outfit and the crook was most definitely not broken. I would, however,
have to explain to my mother later in the evening why my crook ended up in several pieces.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">After visiting a few houses, I realised that sulking was not the best way to impress people. I decided I needed to lighten up and just make the best of it. George and I decided
to sing a little ditty that had been played on ‘Singing Together’ that week. That should bring back memories to those of you of a certain age. Singing Together was a radio programme, aimed at schools, that went
out on the British Broadcorping Casteration’s Home Service one afternoon each week. Each term, a new Singing Together song booklet was issued and (depending on whether or not your school was participating) primary age
school children all over Britain would be belting out such classics as Michael Finnegan, Botany Bay or the one which George and I chose, Bumping Up and Down in My Little Red Wagon.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">So the evening progressed. Our carrier bags were filling up nicely with sweets, apples and occasionally dosh and George and I decided to head home with our hard earned goodies.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">As we headed home, I’d almost forgotten what a tw*t I must have looked. The evening had gone quite well. Anyway, as always seemed to happen, you would meet other guisers
and you would compare notes... ‘Huv ye been tae number 21? They’ve nae sweets left, they’ve only goat money.’ That sort of thing. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">In the last group of fellow halloweeners that we met, there was one bigger kid who was looking at me rather quizzically. Finally, he asked me, ‘Ur you a boey or a lassie?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I told my mother I’d dropped the crook.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 28th of October? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Arthur Wharton 1865 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Elsa Lanchester 1902 - Actress. Mary Shelley and The Monster’s Bride in </span><em><span class="tm8">Bride of Frankenstein</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Evelyn Waugh 1903 - Writer, journalist and book reviewer. Brideshead Revisited, that was one of his.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Pearl Hackney 1916 - Actress. She appeared in 21 episodes of an early 1950s show called </span><em><span class="tm8">The Eric Barker Half Hour</span></em><span class="tm9">. She didn’t use her married name which was Barker... Now, there’s a coincidence.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Cliff Hanley 1922 - Writer, journalist and TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Cleo Laine 1927 - Singer. Shall we have a clip? Here she is with John Williams performing </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jpv85IXdjQk">Cavatina.</a> [Wasn't that replaced by the Ford Sierra? - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bill Rodgers 1928 - Politician who wanted his own party.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Joan Plowright 1929 - Ectress. Played Jean Rice in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Entertainer</span></em><span class="tm9"> with that lovely luvvie Larry Olivier. She didn’t use her (soon to be) married name of Olivier.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bernie Ecclestone 1930 - Business magnate.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jack Hedley 1930 - Actor. Lt. Col. John Preston in </span><em><span class="tm8">Colditz</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Carl Davis 1936 - Composer. He wrote this sombre piece which you </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ds1xUE7hKzI">may recognise.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Graham Bond 1937 - Musician. Not a lot of footage available, but here he is with Ginger Baker, Jack Bruce and Dick Heckstall Smith (and sporting the oddest looking moustache ever) singing
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HDV1VAyUwA">Hoochie Coochie Man.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Dimbleby 1938 - Commentator and presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Howard Blake 1938 - Composer. He wrote many works (not just the music for </span><em><span class="tm8">The Snowman</span></em><span class="tm9">) and here is a piece called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xj0Tw4dwkWo">Exhibition in Piccadilly.</a> That was worth listening to just to watch the accompanying film.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Hank Marvin 1941 - Musician and rhyming slang. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8COV_x7MB4">The Savage.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alastair McDonald 1941 - Musician. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MD0ODz2-9Rs">The Wee Kirkcudbright Centipede.</a> There you go; you now know how to pronounce Kirkcudbright.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Hallam 1941 - Actor. Thomas Mallen in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Mallens</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jimmy McRae 1943 - Car racey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Glyn Ellis aka Wayne Fontana 1945 - Singer. A clip? Why soitenly. Here here is with his Mindbenders performing </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8kq1IU7Y44">The Game of Love.</a> Can you spot the young Eric Stewart, who later found fame with 10CC?</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Dixon 1947 - Actor. Ford Prefect in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John McGovern 1949 - Fitba guy. He played in the first game I ever went to.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Peter Hitchens 1951 - Journalist and author.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark James 1953 - Golfy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jeff Stewart 1955 - Actor. PC Reg Hollis in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Bill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sandy Clark 1956 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Stephen Morris 1957 - Musician. Drummer with Joy Division and New Order, among others. Shall we have another clip? Yes, let’s. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71ZHVmSuBJM">Regret.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">William Reid 1958 - Musician. Co-founder of The Jesus and Mary Chain. Here’s a song from 2017 called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qevLgqlKvIk">Always Sad.</a> Did I tell you he comes from Polomint City? [Probably. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jason Watkins 1966 - Actor. Roger in </span><em><span class="tm8">Hold the Sunset</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alan Smith 1980 - Footy bloke. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Matt Smith 1982 - Actor. Doctor Who number 342.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Joe Thomas 1983 - Actor. Simon Cooper in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Inbetweeners</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Eden Taylor-Draper 1997 - Actress. Belle Dingle (Oh how we laughed.) in </span><em><span class="tm8">Emmerdale</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear William Gramblereid,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was nice to hear a song from your band, The Jesus and Mary Chain which wasn’t the obvious one. You know, the only one of your records to actually make the top ten... the name
of which I’ve completely forgotten. Can you help?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours absent-mindedly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPPP3BXurHk">A. Prill-Skighs.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Darkbloes fare? We didn’t lose... much. In fact, it was a big improvement on our previous bet. We got £1.86 back from our £2.20 stake.
What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Brentford vs Burnley - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Brentford 3 Burnley 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Bryan Mbeumo steered Neal Maupay's pass into the top corner just past the hour mark to double the hosts' lead after Yoana Wissa had broken the deadlock in the first half.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Saman Ghoddos completed the scoring with three minutes remaining, arrowing a powerful shot into the far corner from the edge of the penalty area.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Brentford got the opener their early dominance deserved when Wissa turned in Mbeumo's low cross at the far post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Maupay thought he had given the hosts an eighth-minute lead when he nodded home Nathan Collins' cutback from a tight angle, but the Frenchman's header was controversially
disallowed for offside against Kristoffer Ajer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Burnley improved in the second half and should have pulled a goal back when Lyle Foster teed up Luca Koleosho with the score at 2-0, but the teenager somehow scuffed his shot past
the post with the goal at his mercy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Clarets defender Connor Roberts picked up a second yellow card late on after dragging Wissa to the floor, before Ghoddos put the seal on a comfortable Brentford victory.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Nottm Forest vs Luton - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Nottingham Forest 2 Luton 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Elijah Adebayo's excellent late goal helped Luton come from two goals down to claim a draw against Nottingham Forest.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The Hatters were trailing 2-0 until the 83rd minute when Forest failed to deal with a routine free-kick and Chiedozie Ogbene fired home the loose ball.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Substitute Adebayo then cushioned a long ball on his chest before stroking his finish past Matt Turner to level the game in the second added minute.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Earlier, Chris Wood had put Forest in front two minutes into the second half and added a second after 76 minutes to seemingly set them on course for victory before Luton's
stunning late fightback.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Middlesbrough vs Birmingham - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Middlesbrough 1 Birmingham 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Morgan Rogers scrambled in an 89th-minute winner, just 13 minutes after coming off the bench.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Boro keeper Seny Dieng did keep out an early effort from Krystian Bielik, the hosts repeatedly got in behind the Blues back line.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Isaiah Jones was flagged for offside after having the ball in the net, while young striker Josh Coburn dragged his shot wide.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">And Blues keeper John Ruddy had to make two key second-half saves from Hayden Hackney and Matt Crooks.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">But Crooks was then involved in the move that led to Boro making their late breakthrough.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">After Rogers set Crooks free out wide, when the low return pass came back to him, he managed to prod the ball inside Ruddy's near post </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Watford vs Sheff Wednesday - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Watford 1 Sheffield Wednesday 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Watford substitute Yaser Asprilla snatched a late winner to deny Sheffield Wednesday a point.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The Colombian had only been on the pitch for four minutes when he cut in from the right and rifled his finish across Cameron Dawson.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Dawson had barely been tested up to that point, with the visitors largely keeping Watford at bay and creating the better chances.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">West Brom vs Plymouth - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - West Bromwich Albion 0 Plymouth Argyle 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">West Bromwich Albion and Plymouth Argyle played out a dismal goalless draw at The Hawthorns.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half through chances from Ryan Hardie and Kaine Kesler-Hayden.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">After the break, Grady Diangana prospered from Nathaniel Chalobah dispossessing Argyle before he saw his effort deflected wide by the visitors.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Albion continued to improve and almost sealed a late winner when Jayson Molumby's corner sailed in but Semi Ajayi and (ex-Motherwell man) Cedric Kipre failed to connect.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">That was last week. Only a couple of ’It the bars spoiling our chances of a clean sweep. Ne’er mind, eh. What has The Grambler come up with this week. Five games
all played at 3pm on Saturday the 28th of October and here they are.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Barnsley vs Fleetwood - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Oxford Utd. vs Wycombe - Home win - 19/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Port Vale vs Cheltenham - Home win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Reading vs Portsmouth - Away win - 21/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Wigan vs Shrewsbury - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm19"></span><em><u><span class="tm20">£11.60</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">That’s more like it.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm23">1. </span><span class="tm23">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I was born in Artigas, Uruguay in 1999. A striker, I began my senior career at </span><span class="tm9">Peñarol, before moving to Almeria, Benfica and, my current club, Liverpool. I have been capped 20 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Darwin Núñez</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Danish player has scored the most Premier League goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Christian Eriksen</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. What record is shared by Wolves, Burnley, Preston North End, Portsmouth and Sheffield United.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - They have all been champions of each of the top four English divisions. Pre-Premier League days.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the MKM Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Hull City</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram? Why not. Can you name this famous footballer?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">MAD CHAV BIKED</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - David Beckham</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Shall we have five for this week? Of course we shall.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Barnsley, Yorkshire in 1959. A defender, I began my senior career at Barnsley, before moves to Manchester City, Celtic, Lyon and finally Millwall. I was capped for Ireland
57 times. As a coach, I have managed (deep breath) Millwall, Rep. of Ireland, Sunderland, Wolves, Ipswich, Rep. of Ireland (again), APOEL, Cardiff City and Blackpool.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Talking of Ireland, which Irish player won Manchester City’s player of the year award for four seasons running?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Swedish player has scored the most Premier League goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the Toughsheet Community Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another word jumble? Why not. Here’s another footballer from the past.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">POSH LIP MONTH</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted is miles out of date. Thanks to the good folk at Memories Tea Room, Burnbank, the total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£72,365</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Mr. J. L. Lewis who died exactly one year ago on the 28th October 2022. I thought it might be a nice tribute to the
rock and roll legend, Jerry Lee Lewis aka The Killer. Goodness gracious, what could I possibly use as a clip?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Any road up, I had already made my mind up when I read a little into his private life. Hmm... not quite the legend, it would seem. He was married seven times, sometimes bigamously.
I knew he had married very young, being only 16 when he married his first wife. I also knew that he had married his cousin when she was aged just 13. I’d assumed that she was his first wife. I was wrong. She was
his third wife who he married when he was 22. His story gets seamier by the minute. She was only 14 when she gave birth to a son.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps his rock and roll legend status isn’t quite up there with Elvis Presley and Carl Perkins, but he’s certainly on a par with G*ry Gl*tt*r, M*ch**l J*cks*n and
R*lf H*rr*s.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm18">Mind you, he still produced a damn good toon to end this week’s edition. Ladeez and genullum here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MW3GgSXtESk">Great Balls of Fire.</a> [He should have had his lopped off. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOI4avgf3JkNlwZOtyyi4c5Y5XcVp871osrocMHkA0t5YpOAcL8zS_ZK3f82iRJVcv56q6aGfGQdr1RbX97vQwzHI5jo1HTEqeD2D2xruUIdJQ56pcdkaYJiPGw0S-6Qck0droWN91O2UOdKkS6SzGfswduhJK-llGXVN0bjQi1YxBGthZLeHYDEMbedg/s397/jerry-lee-lewis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="397" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOI4avgf3JkNlwZOtyyi4c5Y5XcVp871osrocMHkA0t5YpOAcL8zS_ZK3f82iRJVcv56q6aGfGQdr1RbX97vQwzHI5jo1HTEqeD2D2xruUIdJQ56pcdkaYJiPGw0S-6Qck0droWN91O2UOdKkS6SzGfswduhJK-llGXVN0bjQi1YxBGthZLeHYDEMbedg/s320/jerry-lee-lewis.jpg" width="256" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Goodness gracious, you look old</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm18"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm18">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-9192497746975754672023-10-21T11:01:00.000+01:002023-10-21T11:01:31.432+01:00Post 488 - The Grambler's a gas<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Why do conductors at posh operas and stuff like that get given a bunch of flowers at the end? Flowers are a bit of a naff gift for a bloke. I’m sure they would much prefer a
Costa Coffee voucher or something.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">S. Rattle.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What has caught my ire this week? British Ga... oops, nearly wrote it out in full. As I don’t relish the possibility of being taken to court by the lawyers of a huge energy
company, let’s call them British not liquid or solid. Okay? No? well, it will have to do.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What is my gripe with this energy supplier? Pull up a chair and Oi’ll tell ee...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Firstly, a question... How do energy suppliers make profits? It is a genuine question; I really would like to know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Some time earlier this year, I was contacted by letter from said company. It requested, nay, demanded that I get in touch with them because my gas meter was not recording my gas
usage. If I didn’t deal with it I would be liable for increased charges. Hang on a mo... If my meter isn’t recording anything, why am I likely to get hit for higher costs? Surely, it is the gas provider’s
problem that the piece of kit they provided is a piece of crap. It serves them right for buying shoddy goods. Agree? Of course you do.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">However, as I wasn’t quite brave enough to express this opinion to them, I acquiesced (Ooh, that’s a good word; wonder what it means.) and got in touch as requested.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I telephoned the number quoted on the letter. My first problem was trying to speak to someone who could understand why I was phoning. No, I’m not being racist and suggesting
that the person on the other end of the line did not use English as their first language. Not this time, anyway. No, the person on the other end of the line wasn’t accepting of the fact that the meter wasn’t
working...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘It will just need resetting. I’ll wait while you do that.’ said the less than helpful individual.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘I’m sorry? Reset it? Me?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Yes. Do that for me, would you?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘You cheeky b******! You demand that I call you because your piece of sh**** equipment doesn’t work and, as well as suggesting that I will have to pay you more money
to put things right, you want me to f****** fix it myself?!! On your bike, pal. You’re not on.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Actually, I didn’t say that. I said, ‘Okay.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">So, while the British... that company... employee waited on the phone, I went outside to reset the meter. Then, I re-entered the house to find the special key to open the box which
houses the meter. After searching for what seemed to be ten minutes or more, I found the yellow, plastic key.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I opened the box, to be faced with various instructions about what I should or shouldn’t do... This mob seem to be downright bossy, I thought. Finally, I found the instruction
about resetting the meter. It told me to press and hold a button for so many seconds and the meter would be set. I did this. It wasn’t. I went back inside the house to my phone.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Are you still there?’ I asked.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Yes. Did it work?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘No.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Did you press the button for 20 seconds?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Yes, I did.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Then, the person on the phone asked me that question which, more than any other, really annoys me.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Are you sure?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Of course, I’m sure. I can follow simple instructions. I’m not daft. although you seem to think I am.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Actually, I didn’t say that. I said, ‘I’ll just check again.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">After checking it again, I told the cheeky sod on the phone that it was most definitely not working.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘We’ll send an engineer out.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">At last. Progress.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Any road up, the engineer duly arrived to fit a new meter. Great. Job done. Better still, he told me that I wouldn’t have to pay any extra for this work being done. Oh
good, I thought; although, inwardly, I was thinking, I should blibbing well hope not, given that it was your dodgy equipment that caused the problem, not me.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A few days later, I received a letter from the energy supplier which told me my meter wasn’t working and I would have to arrange for an engineer to visit and replace it with
a new one. Since I now had a spanking new meter whichwas now functioning as it should, I simply ignored the letter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A week or so later, another letter from that company dropped through my letterbox. It told me that the engineer couldn’t come to fit the meter as requested. Sorry pardon
excuse me? It also told me that, because of the inconvenience caused, £30 would be deducted from my next bill. Did I phone to explain their error? Of course not.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A few days on and another letter arrived. This time the information imparted was short and to the point. It announced that as I had not arranged for an engineer to come to fit
the meter, the matter was now closed. Eh? That was all it said. Should I phone to ask what is going on? No, they might want their 30 quid back.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">More time passed... a few weeks, anyway... and another letter dropped onto my hall carpet. This time, it told me that everything was now sorted. Yay! No, not yay. There was
also a mention of money. Lots of money. £180, no less. This time, I did phone and I spoke to a very pleasant lady from somewhere in Asia, I guessed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was already to complain...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘I’ve received a letter from you telling me that I owe £180.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Just a moment, sir, while I check your account. No, you don’t owe £180. This is the amount you are in credit and the letter is to let you know that it will be
returned to your bank account.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Oh. That’s... good.’ I said, not really believing what I was hearing.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘In fact, you are over £400 in credit. We could transfer more than the £180 if you wish. May I suggest £350 and that will leave you with some credit if energy
prices rise again?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Yes, that’s... good. Thank you.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">That was a worthwhile phone call, don’t you think?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">We now come to a bang up-to-date tale. Last week, a letter arrived to tell me that the annual service for my gas boiler was due. Mrs G phoned and made an appointment. A day or
so later, an engineer telephoned to check if we were still happy for him to come at the appointed time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Things are looking up. Perhaps British not liquid or solid have finally got their act together.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The engineer came as planned and gave the boiler a clean bill of health and, for once, didn’t try to sell me some ‘necessary’ upgrade. I was bidding the engineer
goodbye when the postman came to the door. He gave me a letter. Guess who from. Yep. Right first time. British G... them. Guess what it said... I’m sure you are well ahead of me here... It told me to contact them
so that I could arrange to have my annual gas boiler service carried out.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Back to my question... How do energy companies make profits? It’s not down to whoever organises engineers or sends letters, that’s for sure.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The words arse and elbow come to mind.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 21st of October? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Samuel Taylor Coleridge 1772 - Poet. The Rime of The Ancient Mariner, that was one of his.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Georg Solti 1912 - Conductor.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Malcolm Arnold 1921 - Another conductor.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Leonard Rossiter 1926 - Actor. Rigsby in </span><em><span class="tm8">Rising Damp</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Georgia Brown 1933 - Singer. Her real name was Lilian Klot. [I wonder why she felt the need to change it. - Ed.] Here is a medley of songs she performed on </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lQvM2BQMOE"><i>The Good Old Days</i>.</a></span></p><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrX1ZIBG3mlH2NsTzAZzsw7lC_NyxyY-jq2VSmhJPaIRfYORKji2SloNvlj3c12Ix_UeUNwadk-uVFe5uwrlMp3Q_alSLXvdVA3pFncoti0HIiLcWkCXNPt_WTw_U8wh6g1RU8M7Z9BWUZXl8G3n6zWJA4Jdasi4eBqsZk1yKtutzJI1xd426Nrby_D4/s666/georgia%20brown.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrX1ZIBG3mlH2NsTzAZzsw7lC_NyxyY-jq2VSmhJPaIRfYORKji2SloNvlj3c12Ix_UeUNwadk-uVFe5uwrlMp3Q_alSLXvdVA3pFncoti0HIiLcWkCXNPt_WTw_U8wh6g1RU8M7Z9BWUZXl8G3n6zWJA4Jdasi4eBqsZk1yKtutzJI1xd426Nrby_D4/s320/georgia%20brown.jpg" width="264" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lord Luvvaduck, if it ain’t sweet Georgia Brahn</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Geoff Boycott 1940 - Crickety bloke, sithee.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Manfred Mann 1940 - Musician. Shall we have a little clip? I think so. Here’s his (and his Earth Band’s) take on Jupiter from Holst’s Planet Suite, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Okg0g88JmA">Joybringer.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dickie Pride 1941 - Singer. He signed to Larry Parnes, a music manager and promoter of the 1950s who had the nickname of Parnes, Shillings and Pence given to him, such was his propensity
(Another good word; I must look that one up.) for making dosh. He had a stable of bankable pop artists under his control. Sadly, although Pride’s stage act was said to be one of the best of the era, his record sales
were never high, so Parnes dropped him. Pride tried various comebacks with groups The Guv’nors and The Sidewinders. Any success was brief and he suffered mental health problems which were perhaps exacerbated (There’s
another.) by drug use. He died aged just 27. He had only one solo (minor) hit record, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWZWSgotHUA">Primrose Lane.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tariq Ali 1943 - Political activist, writer and historian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tommy Wright 1944 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mandy Rice-Davies 1944 - Actress, it says here.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Anne Lorne Gillies 1944 - Singer, writer, broadcaster and politician. Here’s a bit of Gaelic country and western(?), </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGV8JRP9-UI">Larach Do Tachaidean.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tetsu Yamauchi 1946 - Bass guitarist. A session musician, he joined Free when Andy Fraser left and later took over from Ronnie Laine in The Faces. He also produced a few solo works.
Here’s a track from Tetsu & The Good Times Roll Band, the title of which translates as </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWxv4d5B-UI">Wake Up.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Phil Ryan 1946 - Musician. He was a member of Welsh band, Man. Then he left. Then he joined again. Then he left again. Then he joined yet again. Keep up at the back! Here’s
one of his compositions, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNy9FbtzwHI">Something is Happening</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Peter Mandelson 1953 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Eric Faulkner 1953 - A Bay City Roller. Would you like a clip? Of course you would. Here’s the group’s last record to chart, </span><span class="tm9"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95-NtJAJfbw">You Made Me Believe in Magic.</a> Eric’s the one wearing what appear to be hotpants.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Baine aka Attila the Stockbroker 1957 - Musician and poet.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Julian Cope 1957 - Musician and author. A clip? Why not. Here’s an oldie, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dawFWa0hfL4">Trampolene.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Steve Pyke 1957 - Photographer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rose McDowall 1959 - Musician. She was half of Strawberry Switchblade. A clip. Of course. Here’s their biggie, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0bnypWItlY">Since Yesterday.</a> Interesting outfits, ladies.<span class="tm9"></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kevin Sheedy 1959 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Cleveland Watkiss 1959 - Singer, composer and actor. Let’s have some reggae jehzzz (?) Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ox87QPFqP8">Gimme What You Got.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Robert Marlow 1961 - Musician. Let’s have a clip. Here’s a very minor hit he had called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxGCHdZQN0U">The Face of Dorian Gray.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul Ince 1967 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tony Mortimer 1970 - Musician and record producer. The songwriter in the group East 17. His solo career didn’t provide any hits, although he must have thought that this, complete
with cheesy video, would have charted. Here's </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvXf8eWF3I4">Shake It Down.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul Telfer 1971 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jade Jagger 1971 - Clothes horse. Mick’s lass.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kieran Richardson 1984 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Oliver Wilde 1988 - Musician. A clip? Indeed. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tP77qL0EfY">Perrett's Brook.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sam Vokes 1989 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Eric Gramblener,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Absolutely wunnnderful to hear your wunnnnderful group the wunnnnderful Bay City Rollers who, as everyone of a certain age will know, were quite good. I was at a wunnnderful party recently
where everybody pretended they were waving tartan scarves like we did back in the 1970s when a particular song of yours was played. It was simply wunnnnderful! However, the memory isn’t what it was and I can’t
remember the title of the song. Can you help.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours in wunnnnder,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytii7-bUxuk">Sian Galang.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Drakboles fare? Sadly, not very well. We didn’t lose. Not completely. We got 62 pees back from our £2.20 stake. Oh dear. What happened?
Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Cambridge vs Shrewsbury - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Cambridge 1 Shrewsbury 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Morrison scored his first Cambridge goal in over 16 years as they drew 1-1 with Shrewsbury.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The U's had been frustrated until the 69th minute, when the captain picked the ball up just inside the opposition half and proceeded beyond five challenges before firing past
Marko Marosi for a remarkable solo effort.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Morrison's last goal for the club had come on 23 January 2007.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The home side missed a number of chances in a goalless first half. James Brophy was denied by an excellent Tom Flanagan block, before Morrison fired wide when well placed following
Ryan Bennett's knockdown.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Seven minutes before half-time Liam Bennett released Fejiri Okenabirhie on the right and the forward squared the ball to Jack Lankester, who crashed his effort onto the crossbar.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Morrison's moment of magic looked to have won the game, only for Shrewsbury to snatch a point two minutes from the end.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts could not clear from within their area, and Taylor Perry slammed an equaliser past Jack Stevens.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln vs Burton - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Lincoln 0 Burton 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Jack Burroughs' own goal handed Burton a win at the expense of 10-man Lincoln at Sincil Bank.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Daniel Mandroiu was sent off 10 minutes after half-time for a rash tackle on Burton forward Josh Gordon and the Brewers wasted no time in taking advantage.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Less than five minutes later, Burroughs diverted Joe Powell's corner beyond goalkeeper Lukas Jensen.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Earlier, Mason Bennett had cut inside and fired his effort wide of Jensen's goal as Burton looked to open the scoring with the game 11 v 11.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Bennett had another chance to open the scoring after Gordon and Bez Lubala linked up well, but his effort was smothered by Jensen.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln managed just one shot on target all afternoon through that of Burroughs, who forced Max Crocombe into a fine save to prevent the Imps opening the scoring at 0-0.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">But it was ultimately Burroughs' mistake at the other end that separated the sides as Burton took the points.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Crewe vs Tranmere - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Crewe 2 Tranmere 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Tranmere had goalkeeper Luke McGee and defender Tom Davies sent off as they went down to a 2-0 defeat at local rivals Crewe.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Jack Powell floated over a 40-yard free-kick and Mickey Demetriou drifted free to plant a header into the bottom corner in the 11th minute to give Crewe the lead.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Seven minutes into the second half, McGee left Tranmere in the mire when he was stranded several yards outside the penalty box as he handled Chris Long's goalbound attempt
to earn a straight red card.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Long deepened Rovers' troubles when blasting the resulting free-kick into the bottom corner, with veteran keeper Joe Murphy's first action off the bench being to pick the
ball out of the net.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">After a lengthy stoppage following an incident in the crowd, the visitors rallied and went close to reducing the arrears when Connor Jennings glanced the crossbar with a thundering
drive.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Crewe's goal was busy in the closing minutes (and 13 of added time) when Harvey Saunders lifted over from close range and rattled the bar with a header while Courtney Baker-Richardson
cleared a header from Jennings off the line.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Tranmere's woes were complete when skipper Davies earned his side's second dismissal of the game with a second yellow card for a late tackle deep into stoppage time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Grimsby vs Accrington - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Grimsby 0 Accrington 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Accrington put 10-man Grimsby to the sword with two late strikes in a 2-0 victory at Blundell Park.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Shaun Whalley and Josh Andrews helped Accrington deservedly pick up three points after Luke Waterfall saw red for two bookable offences.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">A superb block from Accrington defender Jay Baghuelou denied Harry Clifton in the early stages, while his Grimsby team-mate Harvey Rodgers glanced over the crossbar after meeting
an out-swinging Jamie Andrews corner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">At the other end, Josh Andrews went close with a tame header before Abo Eisa saw his shot clawed away by Accrington goalkeeper Jon McCracken.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Grimsby striker Danny Rose prodded goalwards upon the restart from a set-piece as Eisa then passed up a golden opportunity - on the hour mark - when the winger fired over right-footed
from inside the six-yard area.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Waterfall handed Accrington an advantage when he was sent off with 18 minutes to play and they instantly seized control with Whalley and Josh Andrews both scoring in quickfire
fashion to help their side.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon vs Newport - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Swindon 2 Newport 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon Town eased past Newport County in a hard-fought game at the County Ground.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon led when Charlie Austin picked out Dan Kemp, who took the ball past Exiles goalkeeper Jon Maxted to score.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Austin thought he had doubled the lead, but play was called back for a foul in the build-up.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">But Rushian Hepburn-Murphy sealed the win when he poked home a loose ball, after Maxted pushed Saidou Khan's shot onto the post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">In The Grambler’s defence, two of those results went awry because of sendings off. Anyway, let’s see what he/she/it has predicted for this weekend. All games take
place on Saturday, 21st of October at 3pm.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Game</i>*<i> - Result - Odds</i></span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Brentford vs Burnley - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Nottm Forest vs Luton - Home win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Middlesbrough vs Birmingham - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Watford vs Sheff Wednesday - Home win - 7/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">West Brom vs Plymouth - Home win - 7/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm19"></span><em><u><span class="tm20">£9.12</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Nine quid 12 pees? Whopping? I don’t think so.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>*</b> As we go to press, all these games are due to be played, in spite of the awful weather conditions.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm23">1. </span><span class="tm23">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in 1974 in Salford. A midfielder, I played my entire senior career for one club, Manchester United. In 2011 I retired to take up a coaching job with the club. However,
I resumed my playing career in 2012 for one more year. I was capped for England 66 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Paul Scholes [Doesn’t he make sandals? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. It is well-known that Norwegian player, Erling Haaland was the top Premier League scorer in the 2022/23 season, but which Norwegian was also in the top ten scorers?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Answer - </span><span class="tm9">Martin Ødegaard</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Uruguayan has scored the most international goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Answer - That famous ear muncher </span><span class="tm9">Luis Suárez</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which English club plays its home games at the stadium known as The Valley?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Charlton Athletic</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. ARMY GEM JIVES?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Jimmy Greaves</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Shall we have five for this week. Aye, go on then...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I was born in Artigas, Uruguay in 1999. A striker, I began my senior career at </span><span class="tm9">Peñarol, before moving to Almeria, Benfica and, my current club, Liverpool. I have been capped 20 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Danish player has scored the most Premier League goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. What record is shared by Wolves, Burnley, Preston North End, Portsmouth and Sheffield United.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at the MKM Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Another anagram? Why not. Can you name this famous footballer?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">MAD CHAV BIKED</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount quoted in the video is miles out of date. The total now stands at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9" style="color: #2b00fe;"><i><u>£72,220</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Mr. L. Rossiter who was one of Britain’s great, and much sought after, comic actors in the 1970s. If he was involved in any production, you knew you were in for a treat. He could make even a mediocre script funny. As it would have been his birthday today, let's have a finishing
clip from him. What should it be, I ask myself. Rising Damp? The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin? His impression as one of the Andrews Sisters with Morecambe and Wise? A Cinzano Bianco ad with Joan Collins? No, none of these. Instead, please enjoy a short film he
made in 1979... Ladeez and genullum I give you </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0irSdNQknpY">Le Pétomane</a>.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm16">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-90223883084455402182023-10-14T12:36:00.000+01:002023-10-14T12:36:14.514+01:00Post 487 - The Grambler on oddly parked cars<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve heard it said that too many cooks spoil the broth. I don’t know about that, but they certainly spoil daytime television.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A. Worrall-Thompson.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story Time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">You are probably wondering why there has been no edition of your favourite ill-informed blog for a few weeks. What do you mean, you hadn’t noticed? Charming! </span></span><span style="font-size: large;">Beardy Man's Wi-Fi coverage can be blamed, but that is only part of the reason.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">It has been a busy time for Mrs G and me. A family wedding, another fundraising singalongabingo (See </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com/2023/05/post-477-do-gramble-motion.html">Post 477 - Do the gramble-motion</a> for an explanation to that one.) and a couple of jaunts away.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">One such jaunt was a bucket lister, no less. Yes indeed. I have always wanted to visit Orkney and Shetland, so those were the destinations for Mrs G and me.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The first night was spent in Thurso, the northernmost town on the British mainland [How very interesting. Yawn! - Ed.]. Mrs G and I travelled there by coach. [Well done you... What
point are you struggling to make here? - Ed.] Well, I noticed a rather odd phenomenon while travelling up there. Old cars. [And? - Ed.] In fields. [I'm sorry? - Ed.] Dumped.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">You are probably thinking that there is nothing unusual in seeing a car dumped. I'm sure many cars have been dumped in fields. The difference here
was that these were abandoned in the middle of huge fields. A single car, slap, bang in the middle of a huge cultivated field. Then, a mile or two further on, another car similarly abandoned in the middle of a large field.
Travel a bit further and, stone me, there's another one. The odd thing was that there was no evidence of how they got there.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Anyway, we also visited Orkney, as I have already stated. Lovely place with more history than you can shake a stick at. Here's something that caught
my eye. There is a place on the main island called Harray and there is an artisan there who makes pottery. Can you guess what name he goes by? Yes, you at the back? That's right, Harray Potter. Oh how we laughed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Anyway, back to the plot. After Orkney, the coach headed to Shetland and guess what we saw. Only another car dumped in the middle of a field. Will somebody
please tell me what the blibbing flip is going on?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Were they driven into the middle of the field? Doubtful, as they were all fairly ordinary cars without the traction needed to negotiate a less than smooth
field.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm13">Were they lifted bodily into position? Unlikely. If that were the case, an awful lot of people would have been needed to do the lifting.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">There seemed to be no indication of how they got there. The crops were growing evenly all around them or, as in one case, the cattle had munched their way through the grass all
around the vehicle in question and there was no sign of any disturbance such as wheel tracks or footprints.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">It was all very strange, but I think I know what has happened. Oh yes. I have the answer. [Of course you have. You always have. - Ed.] I have... honest.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The answer is... aliens [I'm sorry? What? - Ed.] Yes. Aliens. You remember those crop circles that appeared all over the place in the 80s and 90s? The ones that nobody could
explain? Some folk were convinced they were the work of aliens. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Oddly, you don’t see crop circles any more. And do you know why that is? It is because the aliens are too busy teleporting cars into the middle of fields.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">If you can come up with a more plausible explanation, let me know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 23rd of September? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Emma Orczy 1865 - Authoress. Who? Here’s a clue: They seek her here, they seek her there, etc. Yep, she wrote The Scarlet Pimpernel.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Wally Whyton 1929 - Musician and radio and TV presenter. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Colin Blakely 1930 - Actor. Played Stalin in the 1983 TV film, </span><em><span class="tm8">Red Monarch</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;">George Eastham 1936 - Footy bloke</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Henry Blofeld 1939 - Ex-cricket comentator.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Banks 1943 - Musician. He was drummer with The Merseybeats. How about a clip? Here’s the group’s biggest hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyPpmElPIiM">I Think of You.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tony Gubba 1943 - TV sports presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jim McCalliog 1946 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Floella ‘Baroness’ Benjamin 1949 - </span><span class="tm13">Actress, singer, presenter, author and politician</span><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nicholas Witchall 1953 - Newsreader and ‘Royal correspondent’. Sounds like a cushy number.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kenny Burns 1953 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andrew Bodnar 1954 - Musician. Bass player with Graham Parker and The Rumour. Here’s the band’s biggest hit, their version of the Trammps’ </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kQXko2W0sU">Hold Back the Night.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Cherie Blair 1954 - Letterbox impressionist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lesley Fitz-Simons 1961 - Actress. Sheila Ramsay in </span><em><span class="tm8">Take the High Road</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark Stacey 1964 - Celebrity antiques expert.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Yvette Fielding 1958 - The youngest ever presenter of </span><em><span class="tm8">Blue Peter</span></em><span class="tm9">, joining the programme when she was 18.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Karl Pilkington 1972 - Celebrity idiot.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Robert James-Collier 1976 - Actor. Thomas Barrow in </span><em><span class="tm8">Downton Abbey</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Next, we have those born on the 30th of September...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alfred Dunhill 1872 - Cigarette manufacturer. I wonder how many lives he cut short.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Powell 1905 - Film-maker.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Deborah Kerr 1921 - Ectress, don’t cha know. Anna Leonowens in </span><em><span class="tm8">The King and I</span></em><span class="tm9"> when she got to know Yul Brynner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Donald Swann 1923 - Musician, composer and singer. One half of popular duo Flanders and Swann. [Which one was he? - Ed.] Ahem... Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivf4w3r-_3c">The Wompom.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxyZ_1UkZ9B2bK4wPkPO0TYZkSb_CI5rWxppcXkNxlHKWHEY4CdT4Y59Lzy1CduF3JL-vzDRi2FOr8A0mTFJPobYarIqlq5Na-5DHJbyzVJsZWEzcMaYYa7El0B6K0YO1vwFMntDVx-N94VugTrfsM7qXHfgwoGt0fWMFYUuQmuUEaz3l5lVH8uE-Io4/s379/donald%20swann.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="379" data-original-width="278" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxyZ_1UkZ9B2bK4wPkPO0TYZkSb_CI5rWxppcXkNxlHKWHEY4CdT4Y59Lzy1CduF3JL-vzDRi2FOr8A0mTFJPobYarIqlq5Na-5DHJbyzVJsZWEzcMaYYa7El0B6K0YO1vwFMntDVx-N94VugTrfsM7qXHfgwoGt0fWMFYUuQmuUEaz3l5lVH8uE-Io4/s320/donald%20swann.jpg" width="235" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I seem to have dropped my hat.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">(Only those of a certain age will understand that)</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"><br /></span></span><p></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Barbara Knox 1932 - Actress. Rita (deep breath) Bates/Littlewood/Fairclough/Sullivan/Tanner in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Janet Reger 1935 - Knicker maker.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Meg Johnson 1936 - Actress. Eunice Nuttall/Gee in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Angela Pleasence 1941 - Actress. Winnie in </span><em><span class="tm8">Happy Valley</span></em><span class="tm9">. Donald’s lass.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gus Dudgeon 1942 - Record producer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mike Harrison 1945 - Musician. Frontman of Spooky Tooth. Who? Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7lTzEVVItA">That Was Only Yesterday.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Ogilvy 1943 - Actor. Simon Templar in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Return of the Saint</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jimmy ‘Jinky’ Johnstone 1944 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Marc Bolan 1947 - Musician. Frontman of T-Rex. I think a clip is in order. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGx7nrjn0ic">Hot Love.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rula Lenska 1947 - Actress. Claudia Colby in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Lloyd 1951 - Radio and TV producer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jack Wild 1952 - Actor. Most famously The Artful Dodger in </span><em><span class="tm8">Oliver!</span></em></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ian McCall 1964 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Omid Djalili 1965 - Comedian it says here.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mark Smith 1969 - Rhino in </span><em><span class="tm8">Gladiators</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alex Rae 1969 - Fitba guy. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Roy Carroll 1977 - Foody blook, so he is.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Richard Ashdown 1978 - You perhaps don’t know him by name, but if you watch darts you have probably heard him cry ONE HUNDRED AND AYYYTY!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Cyrus Christie 1992 - Footy bloke bejabers.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now then, what about the 7th of October?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Francis Frith 1822 - Pioneer of photography.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Niels Bohr 1885 - Physicist and Nobel Prize winner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Fred Yule 1893 - Actor, comedian and singer. A stalwart of the wartime radio show </span><em><span class="tm8">It’s That Man Again</span></em><span class="tm9"> playing numerous characters including Johann Bull, Norman the Doorman, Andrew Geekie, George Gorge and Bigga Banga.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Richard Caldicott 1908 - Actor. Most famously Captain Povey in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Navy Lark</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Joseph Cooper 1912 - Pianist and broadcaster. Chairman of BBC’s </span><em><span class="tm8">Face the Music</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Christopher Booker 1937 - Journalist and author.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ann Jones 1938 - Tennisy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Kevin Godley 1945 - Musician. Founder member of 10CC, he later teamed up with fellow 10CC member Lol Creme to produce music and music videos. A clip? I should think so. Here is the beautiful
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNkYZ91d8Lc">5 O'Clock in the Morning.</a> Try to ignore the scary man at the beginning.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Hugh Fraser 1950 - Actor. Hastings in </span><em><span class="tm8">Poirot</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jane Torvill 1957 - Skatey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Simon Cowell 1959 - Entrepreneur.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Micky Flanagan 1962 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul Stewart 1964 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Sam Brown 1964 - Singer. Here’s her last biggish hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBFLAfMYtzg">Kissing Gate.</a>Was that Nicky Campbell?</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Thom Yorke 1968 - Musician. Frontman of Radiohead. Here, with a very odd video, is </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXP1KdZX4io">Man of War.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michelle Mone 1971 - Another knicker maker.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tim Minchin 1975 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alesha Dixon 1978 - Singer, dancer, author, etc.. One time member if Mis-Teeq. A clip? Why, soitenly. Have a bit of </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-hPYpXjs7c">Style.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tony Way 1978 - Jobbing actor. Chestnut in </span><em><span class="tm8">Zapped</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jermain Defoe 1982 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">James McArthur 1987 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Trent Alexander-Arnold 1998 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s not forget the 14th of October.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Charlie Cooper 1893 - Racing car manufacturer (with son, John).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Bud Flanagan 1896 - Comedian and singer. Here’s a bit of British cinematic corn from 1937 with Flanagan (and comedy partner Chesney Allen) singing </span></span><span style="color: #0000ee; font-size: large;"><u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_JIQZdW5EU">Free.</a></u></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Roger Moore 1927 - Actor. James Bond in seven films about 007.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alex Glasgow 1935 - Singer songwriter. Most famous for his version of the traditional song </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utkMQJeiK50">When the Boowat Comes In.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Christopher Timothy 1940 - Actor. Jaes Herriot in All Creatures Great and Small. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Cliff Richard 1940 - Singer. Shall we have a song by Cliff? Yeah, let’s. Here’s his last number one record when he was a mere lad of 78, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8K0Q0zSFWI">Rise Up.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Roger Taylor 1941 - Tennisy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lesley Joseph 1945 - Actress. Dorien Green in </span><em><span class="tm8">Birds of a Feather</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Katy Manning 1946 - Actress. Jo Grant in </span><em><span class="tm8">Doctor Who</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Justin Hayward 1946 - Musician. Frontman of The Moody Blues from 1966 until the band dissolution in 2018. Have another clip. Here is a recent rendition of </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eX9X4ka29B8">Forever Autumn.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dan McCafferty 1946 - Singer and songwriter. Frontman of Nazareth. I’m spoiling you, but here’s another clip - </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFZVF31b0B0">May the Sunshine.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Murray 1951 - Businessman.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Steve Cram 1960 - Runny bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Steve Coogan 1965 - Actor comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jason Plato 1967 - Racing driver turned TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Matt Le Tissier 1968 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Duberry 1975 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Shaznay Lewis 1975 - Singer, songwriter and All Saint. A clip? But, of course. I fancy a </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8yRiWJ2A_w">coffee, black, of course.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul Hunter 1978 - Snookery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Steven Thompson 1978 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jonathan Ashworth 1978 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Colin Furze 1979 - Youtube personality.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ben Wishaw 1980 - Actor. Q in </span><em><span class="tm8">Skyfall</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kevin Thomson 1984 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jack Farthing 1985 - Actor. George Warleggan in </span><em><span class="tm8">Poldark</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Shona McGarty 1991 - Actress. Whitney Dean in </span><em><span class="tm8">Eastenders</span></em><span class="tm9">. You slag.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Daniel Roche 1999 - Actor. Ben Brockman in </span><em><span class="tm8">Outnumbered</span></em><span class="tm9">... The annoying kid.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Kevin Grambley,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was lovely to hear a song of yours from your post 10CC years; even though it was Lol Creme doing most of the work while you just lounged on the piano. Anyhoo, here’s a question
for you: 10CC had a few number ones, but what was the first? Eh? Answer me that, smartyboots.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours sincerely,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tqSIpr0T0w">Rob Erbulitz.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Drabkoles fare? I can’t remember. It was weeks ago. Let’s say we won... I’ve no idea if we did or not, but let’s be optimistic.
Shall we have a little gramble, this week? Aye, go on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Cambridge vs Shrewsbury - Home win - Evens</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln vs Burton - Home win - Evens</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Crewe vs Tranmere - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Grimsby vs Accrington - Home win - 11/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Swindon vs Newport - Home win - 7/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm17"></span><em><u><span class="tm18">£12.50</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">More whopping than usual, that’s for sure.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm15"><strong><em><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm21">1. </span><span class="tm21">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Stourbridge in the West Midlands in 2003. I joined Birmingham City as an under eight and made my senior debut there in 2019 aged just 16 years and 38 days. In 2020, I
moved to Borussia Dortmund and this year have transferred to Real Madrid. I have been capped 26 times for England.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Jude Bellingham</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Swedish player scored the most Premier League goals last season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Alexander Isak</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Croatian has scored the most international goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Answer - </span><span class="tm9">Davor Šuker</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. A Champions League question - Which two clubs are in the Champions League Group Stage for the first time?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Antwerp and Union Berlin</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. An anagram...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">WEEKLY LARK</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Kyle Walker [Some would say that anagram was quite apt. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What about five to test your footy knowledge this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in 1974 in Salford. A midfielder, I played my entire senior career for one club, Manchester United. In 2011 I retired to take up a coaching job with the club. However,
I resumed my playing career in 2012 for one more year. I was capped for England 66 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. It is well-known that Norwegian player, Erling Haaland was the most prolific Premier League scorer in the 2022/23 season, but which Norwegian was also in the top ten scorers?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Uruguayan has scored the most international goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which English club plays its home games at the stadium known as The Valley?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. let’s finish with another anagram...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">ARMY GEM JIVES</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><u><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></u></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm15"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is miles out of date. The total has jumped again, as over £100 went in after one of my ‘nostalgia’
presentations. My thanks go to the Linvale ladies’ group.</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£72,220</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm15"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Mr. C. Furze who provides us with this week’s finishing link. If you have never heard of Colin Furze, and you
are probably not alone, he is a YouTuber, I believe is the correct term, who posts films of his crazy engineering projects. There are so many online, it is difficult to choose one. I think this one is one of his wackiest
and I can’t imagine what his neighbours thought of it... </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9uh-CyBMCs">The guy's Mad!</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm13">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-17389431923439230662023-09-14T22:11:00.001+01:002023-09-14T22:11:55.265+01:00Post 486 - I've bin grambling<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I do apologise for there not being a gramble for a week or three, but I hope this bumper edition makes up a little for that. A family wedding and its planning had something to
do with the non-appearance of one of those weeks. Another reason for the gap in editions was that we were taking time to remember Stewart (the founder of this august publication) who died ten years ago on 29th of August 2013. With this in mind, I invite you to
read </span> <a href="http://www.thegrambler.com/2013/01/week-22-cest-le-grambler-finalment.html">Week 22: C'est le Grambler finalment!</a> and <u><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com/2017/09/week-5-grambler-remembering-stewart-4.html">Week 5 - The Grambler remembering Stewart 4 years on</a></u></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Have any of your readers spotted the resemblance between Eamonn Holmes and Dame Kelly Holmes? They could be father and daughter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ken Furlough.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">[Well readers, have you ever thought that two totally dissimilar people were related? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">This week I will be talking rubbish. [No comment - Ed.] I mean, I will be talking about rubbish.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">First of all I want to explain what prompted this topic. I was watching the TV the other day and there was a re-run of an old gardening makeover programme. What intrigued me about
the transformed garden was that, although it looked spectacular, there seemed to be no provision made for a tool shed, washing line or rubbish bin. And it is the last of these which got me thinking [Dangerous. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Let me take you back (cos I'm going to Strawberry Fields...) to the 1950s. [Hovis time? - Ed.] Indeed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">I come from the town known as polomint city because of its proliferation (That's a good word. Wonder what it means.) of roundabouts... the road type, not the fairground ones.
In the 50s, the town was brand new in that it was the first planned 'new town' to be begun in Scotland after the war. Thousands of houses were being built and all were based on maybe seven or eight basic designs ranging
from studio flats to four and five bedroomed houses. One of the designs, that of a three- bedroomed terraced house [What is this? Homes under the hammer? - Ed.], had a somewhat ingenious idea for refuse collection. Or at least
it seemed like a good idea at the time. These houses had no access to the back garden so the bin was placed in its own little cupboard at the front of the house. On bin collection days, the refuse collector... or bin man as
I still call them, even though we actually have a bin lady, but that just sounds daft... simply opened the cupboard door, removed and emptied the bin, and returned the now empty bin to its little home.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The tenant didn't even have to leave the house to put rubbish into the bin because inside the house was a handy lid directly above the bin. You simply lifted that lid, then
lifted the bin lid and, voila, rubbish disposed of. Brilliant, or what? I'm afraid, it's what.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The bin door wasn't locked, obviously, because the bin man needed access. The lid ought to have been locked, but a lot of people didn't bother. Can you see what's coming?
A fairly small burglar could easily get into the bin cupboard, push up the lid above the bin and, hey bingo, access achieved without any breaking to enter. It didn't take long for householders to realise that a decent
lock was required. Indeed, a heavy weight placed on top of the lid was an even better security measure.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">So, once this had been sorted out, the system ran well until the advent of... da da da... the wheely bin.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">These monstrosities were considerably larger than the old galvanised bins so couldn't possibly fit into the old bin cupboard. The council folk came up with what they considered
to be a clever solution by providing plastic bin sacks to the people whose houses had this unusual bin shed arrangement.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Sorted. No, still not sorted.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The wheely bin was introduced to reduce the workload of the bin man. No longer did he have to lift any bins, he could simply wheel it to the refuse lorry, press a button and a
clever hydraulic lifting and tipping mechanism did the rest. What an excellent way to improve health and safety for the bin men.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Huzzah for common sense.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Councils also used the introduction of wheely bins as an excuse to reduce the number of employees it needed for bin emptying duties. Whereas, as many as eight people might be needed
to man a bin lorry, the new bins meant that only half that number was needed. It didn't take councils long to make further cuts by insisting that householders took their own bins to the roadside so that the bin men didn't
even have to move them other than positioning them onto the lorry.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Why am I giving this unnecessary lecture on how refuse collection works in polomint city?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Consider those households that were forced to use bin bags. Not just ordinary refuse sacks either, but giant bin bags. Each, big enough to take a week's worth of rubbish. The
idea was simple enough; keep the bin bag in the bin cupboard as before but, on refuse collection days, lift it to the roadside for the bin men to lift.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Sorted... No, as I have already stated, definitely not sorted. There is a big problem. Well, a smallish, four-legged problem. In fact, several four-legged problems known as foxes.
Those well-known members of the genus canis or, as we say in Scotland, dug, which survive by hunting smaller animals... except they don't, do they? Not if they can simply rip open a bin bag to help themselves to households'
food waste.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">So, that idea soon got the heave-ho. What else could those good people in the council offices come up with? Why, wheely bins, of course. Nowadays, if you live in one of those houses
without access to the back garden, you have the same wheely bins as every other householder. That is bins plural. We now have one bin for household waste, one for garden and food waste, one for paper and cardboard and one
for plastic, glass and metal. The view from the front window is now spoiled by these four bins of various hues.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">I have a better solution. [You bloody would have. - Ed.] We should adopt the system used in other parts of the world where, instead of individual bins, there is a communal bin
shed where everyone can place their rubbish in gigantic industrial sized bins.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">It would mean that gardens would have a bit more space and, in particular, those houses without access to the rear could have their view back.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Good idea? What do you reckon?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Who said rubbish?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 2nd of September? Of course there were. Here are some that even
I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kirkpatrick Macmillan 1812 - Inventor who is credited with inventing the pedal-driven bicycle... but did he?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Eileen Way 1911 - Jobbing actress. Agatha Poldark in </span><em><span class="tm8">Poldark </span></em><span class="tm9">(1977).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bill Shankly 1913 - Fitba guy. [Sounds like he had something wrong with him... ‘Ooh, I’m a bit shankly today.’ - Ed.] Ahem.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">George Brown 1914 - Politish... hic... politishunnan.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ronnie Stevens 1925 - Actor. Rawlinson in </span><em><span class="tm8">A.J. Wentworth B.A.</span></em></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Russ Conway 1925 - Ivory tickler. Would you like a clip? Of course you would. He had a couple of number ones; here he appears in a 1961 film playing a toon he called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKl8C81Iac4">Roulette.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Francis Matthews 1927 - Actor. Paul Temple in... would you Adam and Eve it... </span><em><span class="tm8">Paul Temple</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Victor Spinetti 1929 - Actor and theatre director. [How do you direct a theatre? - Ed.] Ahem. Vic Evans in </span><em><span class="tm8">Two in Clover</span></em><span class="tm9">. Factoid: He was the only actor to appear in both Beatles feature films, </span><em><span class="tm8">A Hard Day’s Night</span></em><span class="tm9"> and </span><em><span class="tm8">Help!</span></em></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Derek Fowlds 1937 - Actor. Oscar Blaketon in </span><em><span class="tm8">Heartbeat</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Glyn Worsnip 1938 - TV and radio presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kevin Woodcock 1942 - Cartoonist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Roger Coughlan 1947 - Musician. Drummer with Caravan. A clip? Why soitenly. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ik8dE1-SQtg">Golf Girl.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Moira Stuart 1949 - Newsreader.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mik Kaminski 1951 - Fiddler. One time member of ELO and Violinski. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdDRjScSZnc">Clog Dance.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Adrian Fisher 1952 - Musician. He was guitarist in Sparks when it was a five-piece band. Here’s an early piece from them, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haf5s0b--zw">Never Turn Your Back on Mother Earth.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Maurice Colclough 1953 - Rugby bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Keith Allen 1954 - </span><span class="tm17">Actor, writer, comedian, singer-songwriter, musician, television presenter, film director</span><span class="tm9">, it says here.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Keir Starmer 1962 - Politician and barrister. [Does he work in Costa or Starbucks? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Sue Cleaver 1963 - Actress. Eileen Grimshaw in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lennox Lewis 1965 - Boxy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tim Key 1976 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gary Hollywood 1979 - Actor. Dino Doyle in </span><em><span class="tm8">Mrs Brown’s Boys</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Chris Tremlett 1981 - Crickety bloke. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joey Barton 1982 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Higdon 1983 - Footy bloke. Ex-Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now then, what about the 9th of September?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">William Bligh 1754 - Officer of the British Royal Navy. Yes, him. The one they made the film about. The one about the mutiny on the Bounty. He made it back to Britain after
being cast adrift. Yes, then he invented the coconut chocolate bar and the rest is history.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Beverley Nicholls 1898 - Writer, playwright and public speaker. All I remember him for was a cat food advert.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael Aldridge 1920 - Actor. Seymour Utterthwaite in </span><em><span class="tm8">Last of the Summer Wine</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jimmy Perry 1923 - Script writer and actor.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ruth Trouncer 1930 - Jobbing actress. Joyce Rogers in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Larkins</span></em><span class="tm9"> (the 1958 one).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Margaret Tyzack 1931 - Actress. Winifred Dartie in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Forsyte Saga</span></em><span class="tm9"> (the 1967 one).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Reid 1949 - Music manager of artists such as Queen and Elton John.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Curry 1949 - Skatey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dave Stewart 1952 - Musician. One time Eurythmic. Have a clip. Here’s an oldie, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KLruiHP8U8">Never Gonna Cry Again.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Hugh Grant 1960 - Actor. William Thacker in </span><em><span class="tm8">Notting Hill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mike Ashley 1964 - Businessman and former owner of Newcastle United.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John ‘Yogi’ Hughes 1964 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Julia Sawalha 1968 - Actress. Saffron in </span><em><span class="tm8">Absolutely Fabulous</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Hal Cruttenden 1969 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rodney Smith aka Roots Manuva 1972 - Rapper. Time to </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDWgtB_MD24">witness the fitness.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Natasha Kaplinsky 1972 - Newsreader.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Adam James 1972 - Actor. Robert Dillon in </span><em><span class="tm8">Home from Home</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jon McLaughlin 1987 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stuart Carswell 1993 - Fitba guy. Ex-Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s not forget those born on the 16th of September...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Henry V of England 1386 - The well-known king and play.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Arthur Towle aka Arthur Lucan aka Old Mother Riley 1885 - (Over)Actor. Played Old Mother Riley in a number of dreadful films. [I’m guessing you didn’t rate him too
highly. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm15" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTQCin-e-aRVZM1JLVCbHZdatybKO__OZiLFdSo8IiQSvWXwpO0CCKhuwTZ9R5WcYhdRTuXGHuItgaPh18fSNvqkXONabhx3R7o-1JYwaSPs-Gx9FfVmggNktMEFl5b0um0T5Zq5Iv6CKxfBRG3n_IpNIUpBOnFh9SWYqnlCU_Ia5ILFiMSYr9uSLzY8Q/s450/arthur%20lucan.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTQCin-e-aRVZM1JLVCbHZdatybKO__OZiLFdSo8IiQSvWXwpO0CCKhuwTZ9R5WcYhdRTuXGHuItgaPh18fSNvqkXONabhx3R7o-1JYwaSPs-Gx9FfVmggNktMEFl5b0um0T5Zq5Iv6CKxfBRG3n_IpNIUpBOnFh9SWYqnlCU_Ia5ILFiMSYr9uSLzY8Q/s320/arthur%20lucan.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm15" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Arthur Lucan, the original drag queen</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Walter ‘W.O.’ Bentley 1888 - Motor engineer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alexander Korda 1893 - Film producer and director.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Guy Hamilton 1922 - Film director.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bella Emberg 1937 - Actress. Appeared a lot with Russ Abbott; famously as Blunderwoman (Oh how we laughed.).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Bernie Calvert 1942 - Musician. A member of The Hollies from 1966 to 1981, playing bass guitar and keyboards. A clip? I think so. How about this, a live rendition of </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgA4-bLcoN8">Carrie Anne.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Julia Donaldson 1948 - Writer of children’s books. The Gruffalo is one of hers.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Kenney Jones 1948 - Drummer with a few bands including Small Faces, Faces and The Who. I think a clip is in order. Here’s an early one </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsuKmqQyYR4">Sha La La La Lee.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Belinda Sinclair 1950 - Actress. Fran in </span><em><span class="tm8">Shelley</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andy Irvine 1951 - Rugby guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark Ellen 1953 - TV presenter, journalist and Paul McCartney lookalike.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alan Barton 1953 - Singer who was a member of Black Lace when they were having hits such as Agadoo and Superman. Shall we have a clip? Aye go on, then. Here’s Britain’s
entry in the 1979 Eurovision Song Contest, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wklHRS7Fhxk">Mary Anne.</a> It didn’t win. [There’s a surprise. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Janet Ellis 1955 - TV presenter, actress and writer. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Neville Southall </span><span class="tm9">1958 - Pêl-droediwr. Holds the club record for most appearances for Everton: 578 league games and a total of 750 in all competitions.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Danny John-Jules 1960 - Actor. Cat in </span><em><span class="tm8">Red Dwarf</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Martin Coogan 1960 - Musician. He fronted The Mock Turtles. Remember them? Here’s their only top 20 hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLyUonGf1jY">Can You Dig It.</a> [I most certainly can. Dig that crazy groove, man - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Stephen Jones 1962 - Musician and novelist. He had a big hit under the name Babybird, and here it is: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOn9YtvhgXg">You're Gorgeous.</a> [Why, thank you. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Justine Frischmann 1969 - Artist and musician. She was the lead singer of Elastica, so I think another clip is in order. Here’s </span><span class="tm9"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlOje4ly4hg">Waking Up</a> or is it </span><span class="tm9"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tfy8f9lDD0">No More Heroes?</a> Discuss.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ed Stoppard 1974 - Actor. Henryk in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Pianist</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Katie Melua 1984 - Singer-Songwriter. Here’s her first hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9Oa3KNKOQU">The Closest Thing to Crazy.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kyle Lafferty 1987 - Foody blook, so he is.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Sophie Powles 1988 - Actress. Holly Barton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Emmerdale</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jake Roche 1992 - Singer-songwriter and actor. Here’s his big hit as half of Push Baby, </span><span class="tm9"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JJfJgyHYwU">Me and My Broken Heart</a>. Factoid: He is the son of Shane Richie and Coleen Nolan.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I recently wrote asking if Dame Kelly Holmes and Eamonn Holmes were related. Silly me. I actually meant Larry Holmes, the well-known pugilist. Are Larry Holmes and Eamonn Holmes
related in any way? They could easily pass for father and daughter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ken Furlough.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Krabdoles fare? We won. Sort of. Three results out of five went our way (with the other two being draws... grrr) so we didn’t quite get our stake
money back, winning £2.14 from our £2.20 outlay. Shame. What happened? Read on...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Burton vs Bolton - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Burton 1 Bolton 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">MARK Helm’s early second half goal ensured a share of the spoils from a 1-1 draw with Bolton Wanderers</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Helm took advantage of lax defending less than a minute into the second half to notch the Brewers first home league goal of the campaign but it wasn’t enough to secure all
three points as Dion Charles equalised for Bolton before the hour mark was up.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">After a positive start Albion really should have taken the lead on eight minutes. Defender Jack Iredale gave away possession to Bobby Kamwa and the forward sped into the box, rounded
keeper Nathan Baxter and then saw his shot hit the post as Iredale got back ready to clear.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Kamwa’s pace was a concern for the Bolton defence and the striker had another more difficult chance on twelve minutes but from the edge of the box drilled an effort wide
of the target.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Wanderers grew into the game and Randell Williams had their first real chance midway through the half, breaking into the box and after being forced wide by John Brayford, seeing
his angled shot pushed around the post by Max Crocombe.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Rekeem Harper then had a chance pouncing on more dubious Bolton defending to drive into the box but his low shot rolled wide of Baxter’s goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">As the game settled into more of an even battle, defences started to get on top but Crocombe still had to be alert when Charles’ effort on forty minutes came through a crowded
box and safely into the keeper’s waiting arms.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The keeper also did superbly when Charles crept in behind the Brewers defence but could not find a way past the stopper’s sprawling save.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Whilst Crocombe was keeping his first half clean sheet, attention, and concern, switched to the other end where Mason Bennett required attention and could take no further part,
limping off to be replaced by Josh Gordon.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Within a minute of the restart Albion got a goal to give them a real boost. Kamwa got into an attacking position on the right and when his low crossed was missed by a defender,
Helm had the simple task of sweeping the ball into the empty net at the back post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Bolton tried to hit back quickly and Victor Adeboyejo saw an acrobatic effort hit a grounded Brayford before dropping wide and Paris Maghoma also got into a good position but could
not keep his effort down.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors had their equaliser on 58 minutes when Albion’s back line failed to deal with a hopeful ball forward and Charles was able to capitalise to roll the ball into
an unguarded goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Albion really should have gone back in front on 65 minutes, Brayford’s towering header dropping inside the six yard box where both Gordon and Deji Oshilaja could not quite
squeeze it over the line.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Adeboyejo thought he had turned the game around completely for the visitors with twenty mintues remaining but he was denied by an outstanding save at close range by Crocombe.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">It was the striker’s final action as Bolton made a triple substitution to try and swing the game in their favour in the latter stages.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Albion also threw on Mustapha Carayol and Kwadwo Baah late on but despite late skirmishes in both penalty areas a winner would not come for either side.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Oxford vs Charlton - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Oxford 2 Charlton 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Two goals from Tyler Goodrham gave Oxford United the win over Charlton at the Kassam Stadium.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Charlton caused plenty of problems in the first five minutes and it needed a smart save from James Beadle to keep a Nathan Asiimwe drive out and then a brave block at the feet
of Alfie May as the visitors looked for an early goal. But from then on United took control of the first half.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">After ten minutes they were in front when Goodrham ran at the retreating Addicks back line, with Ruben Rodrigues, Billy Bodin and Mark Harris all alongside. His teammates made
runs that drew men away and Goodrham exploited the space to hammer the ball past Harry Isted for a superb goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Pressing Charlton all over the pitch, United continually stole the ball in dangerous areas; Bodin and Rodrigues both went close as a result and there was some delightful football
as they dominated the game. One dummy from Harris to send Marcus McGuane free on half way left half the South Stand looking the wrong way, while McGuane ran the game with a commanding performance in midfield.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">All that was missing was a second goal and that really should have been a formality when Goodrham again sprinted clear on 38 minutes but picked out the one covering defender, with
the unmarked Harris and Bodin waiting to apply the finishing touch.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Booed off by their travelling fans, the stung Addicks had three different players on by the start of the second half and looked far more fired up. They had left three United players
crumpled in heaps before the 50th minute and ended up with seven players booked plus a member of the backroom team.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Just after the hour that fighting spirit paid off, when Alfie May found space inside the box and buried the ball below Beadle to pull level.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Now the game went end to end. The excellent Stephan Negru didn't quite get enough on a dropping ball with the goal at his mercy, and a Brannagan free kick hammered into Isted's
chest as it flew through the wall with nine minutes left. United needed a hero, and when Rodrigues flicked the ball to sub Stan Mills the ball broke to the perfect person. Goodrham squeezed the ball past the exposed Isted
and United were back in front.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Port Vale vs Carlisle - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Port Vale 1 Carlisle 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">James Wilson's second-half penalty handed Port Vale a hard-earned victory against Carlisle.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts bossed the early stages, with Nathan Smith and Wilson both going close.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Eventually Carlisle replied, when Owen Moxon fired just over the top following Callum Guy's smart pass.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Guy himself went close soon after, with his terrific strike from distance being superbly beaten out by Vale keeper Connor Ripley.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Vale thought they had scored shortly before the interval but Ethan Chislett was thwarted by an assistant referee's flag.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts did strike shortly after the restart, from the penalty spot. Carlisle keeper Jokull Andresson tugged back Chislett in the box, leaving Wilson to coolly slot home from
the spot.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The lead was almost doubled soon after when Alex Iacovitti lashed a shot just over.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But Carlisle almost levelled when Sean Maguire headed Jack Armer's cross inches wide.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Wimbledon vs Forest Green - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Wimbledon 1 Forest Green 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar again!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A late goal from Troy Deeney saw Forest Green Rovers salvage a valuable point at AFC Wimbledon.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A combination of Deeney and Tyrese Omotoye bundled the ball over the line.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts started the game brightly but it was Rovers who went close after just 15 minutes. Kyle McAllister laid the ball off to Charlie McCann on the edge of the box - and the
midfielder's curling right footed effort kissed the post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">FGR had another chance to take the lead 12 minutes later. Jamie Robson put in a delicious cross from the left side, finding the head of Matty Stevens six yards out, but his header
was saved by Bass.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">AFC Wimbledon took the lead 10 minutes before the break, with James Ball rising highest from a corner. James Tilley could have doubled the advantage just before the interval, but
his free-kick just went over Luke Daniels' bar.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Rovers wrestled back some control in the second period, with Deeney and Omotoye causing problems.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There were two huge moments on the three quarters of an hour mark. Firstly, Ali Al-Hamadi beat the offside trap and raced through one-on-one with Daniels. With just the 'keeper
to beat, the forward blasted the ball well over the bar.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">60 seconds later, Rovers equalised. A defence-splitting ball from McCann found Deeney, who looped the ball over the head of Bass - and then the ball somehow made its way across
the line, with Omotoye and Deeney helping to bundle it over.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Rovers were under pressure in the final moments - but Daniels was at his dependable best to keep out Josh Neufville and Al-Hamadi.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Newport vs Sutton - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Newport 3 Sutton 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Three goals in the last twenty minutes consigned Sutton to a defeat after Omari Patrick's goal early in the second half had given U's the lead. Joe Kizzi's own goal
saw Newport level before goals from Harry Charsley and Will Evans secured the points for the home side.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">With skipper Craig Eastmond missing through injury there was a first league start for U's for Craig Clay, with Harry Beautyman taking the captain's armband, while Sam Hart
and Aiden O'Brien were fit to take places on the substitutes' bench.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">There weren't too many clear sights of goal for either side in the early stages, Jack Rose diving on a glancing Ryan Delaney header following a long throw from Shane McLoughlin,
and Patrick seeing a curling effort that might have been heading inside the post deflected away by James Clarke. Midway through the half the game's first corner produced a half chance for the home side as Aaron Wildig's
flag kick from the left was headed wide by Clarke, and on the half hour Adam Lewis sent a 20-yard shot just too high for the hosts after a cross from the right had run loose.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Newport threatened again eight minutes before half time when Will Evans collected a high ball over the top and stayed clear of Omar Sowunmi only to see Rose dive to his left to
save and then react superbly to deny Seb Palmer-Houlden as the ball ran loose. It had been far from one way traffic, though, with Josh Coley and Omari Patrick both lively on the flanks, and after doing well to create some
space Coley saw one shot blocked. Coley and Lee Angol were booked for fouls in quick succession in first half stoppage time but Newport were unable to take advantage of the free kicks as the half ended goalless.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The first chance of the second half was Sutton's, as a Rob Milsom free kick was cleared as far as Harry Beautyman, whose low shot was deflected wide, but just three minutes
later U's had the lead as Coley's cross found the head of Angol at the far post, and although his header was blocked the ball ran loose to Patrick who fired home.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Rose came to Sutton's rescue, and Milsom's in particular, five minutes later when Scot Bennett's cross was headed back by Palmer-Houlden, and a ricochet off Milsom
was going in until Rose's reaction save stopped it on the line, and as the home side looked for an equaliser Beautyman blocked Wildig's shot and Bryn Morris shot just over after Rose had punched Wildig's cross
clear. U's still threatened, though, and Patrick was denied by Nick Townsend after being put through by Coley.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The game turned as Newport brought on sub Omar Bogle and the striker was involved in the build up that led to the equaliser within four minutes, as he combined with Evans to release
Lewis on the left, and his cross was diverted spectacularly in by a diving Kizzi. Seven minutes later and the turn round was complete as another Lewis cross was collected by McLaughlin beyond the far post, and he chipped the
ball back for Harry Charsley to head home.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Patrick shot too high from the edge of the penalty area before U's rang the changes with four substitutes, Sowunmi going in to the forward line, but before the changes could
take any effect another replacement, Sam Hart, was unable to prevent the ball reaching Palmer-Houlden on the right and his cross was headed in by Evans. It might have been worse but for a fine save by Rose from Bogle after
the striker had been left clear by Ryan Jackson's underhit pass.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What has The Grambler randomly selected this week? Let’s have a look at the five games, all of which take place at 3pm on Saturday, the 16th of Setember.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Fulham vs Luton - Home win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Huddersfield vs Rotherham - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Norwich vs Stoke - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Exeter vs Cheltenham - Home win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln vs Carlisle - Home win - 20/23</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm15" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm19"></span><em><u><span class="tm20">£10.28</span></u></em></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Averagely whopping, I reckon.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm15"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm23">1. </span><span class="tm23">Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Torquay, England in 1995. A forward, I began my senior career at Exeter City (having progressed through the youth ranks). In 2017 I was transferred to Championship club
Brentford before moving to my current club, Aston Villa, in 2020 for a fee of £28 million. I have been capped for England seven times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Ollie Watkins</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Brazilian player scored the most Premier League goals last season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Gabriel Martinelli with 15</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who scored over 100 goals for both Crystal Palace and Arsenal in the 1980s and 90s?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Ian Wright </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which English club plays home games at the Bet365 Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Stoke City</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Here’s another name jumble. This time, it’s a footballer who was a prolific Premier League goalscorer in his day.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">NICE HOME LAW</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Michael Owen</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did you get on? Easy, weren’t they? No? Oh dear. Well, here are five more to tease you this week.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Stourbridge in the West Midlands in 2003. I joined Birmingham City as an under eight and made my senior debut there in 2019 aged just 16 years and 38 days. In 2020, I
moved to Borussia Dortmund and this year have transferred to Real Madrid. I have been capped 26 times for England.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Swedish player scored the most Premier League goals last season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Croatian has scored the most international goals?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. A Champions League question - Which two clubs are in the Champions League Group Stage for the first time?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. I do hope you are enjoying the anagrams, because here’s another. Clue? He’s a current Premier League player. [Call that a clue? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">WEEKLY LARK</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span></span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm7"><span style="font-size: large;">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></span></a></p><p class="Normal tm6"><span class="tm7"></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm15"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is miles out of date. The actual amount raised has increased a little over the past couple of weeks. To
mark the tenth anniversary of Stewart’s death, his friends organised a quiz night. It wasn’t supposed to be a fundraiser, but many people donated all the same. Thanks to everyone who attended and enjoyed a Motherwell-themed
quiz.</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9" style="color: #2b00fe;"><i><u>£72,083</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm15"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm15" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to Mr. W. Shankly. The late, great Liverpool manager, Bill Shankly could always come up with the perfect motivational line
to inspire his supporters (or criticism to put down his detractors). Here, he provides us with a few pearls of wisdom to end this week’s edition of your favourite ill-informed blog. (I may have used some of these before,
but the guy was a legend, they deserve to be seen again.)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><u><a href="https://www.azquotes.com/quote/717915"><span class="tm8"></span></a><a id="title_quote_link_717915"></a></u><span class="tm17">Forget the Beatles and all the rest. This is the real Liverpool sound. It's real singing, and it's what the Kop is all about.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">My idea was to build Liverpool into a bastion of invincibility. Had Napoleon had that idea he would have conquered the bloody world. I wanted Liverpool to be untouchable. My idea
was to build Liverpool up and up until eventually everyone would have to submit and give in.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve been a slave to football. It follows you home, it follows you everywhere, and eats into your family life. But every working man misses out on some things because
of his job.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">Well the Kop’s exclusive. The Spion Kop at Liverpool is an institution. And if you are a member of the Kop you feel as if you are a member
of a big society where you’ve got thousands of friends all roundabout you. And they’re united and loyal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">It's a 90 minute game for sure. In fact I used to train for a 190 minute game so that when the whistle blew at the end of the match I could have played another 90 minutes.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">If you're not sure what to do with the ball, just pop it in the net and we'll discuss your options afterwards.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">We absolutely annihilated England. It was a massacre. We beat them 5-4.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">If you can't support us when we lose or draw, don't support us when we win</span><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">The socialism I believe in is everybody working for the same goal and everybody having a share in the rewards. That’s how I see football, that’s how I see life.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">Aim for the sky and you'll reach the ceiling. Aim for the ceiling and you'll stay on the floor.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">A football team is like a piano. You need eight men to carry it and three who can play the damn thing.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">If you are first you are first. If you are second, you are nothing.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">At a football club, there's a holy trinity - the players, the manager and the supporters. Directors don't come into it. They are only there to sign the cheques.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">A lot of football success is in the mind. You must believe you are the best and then make sure that you are.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">Laddie, that man scored 200 goals in 270 matches - an incredible record - and he has won cup after cup as a manager. When he talks, pin back your ears.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">If a man….who’s playing in front of the public, is being well paid, and he doesn’t dedicate himself to the job, I’d be
hard on him. If I could I would put him in jail, out of the road of society. Because he’s a menace</span><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">Football is a simple game based on the giving and taking of passes, of controlling the ball and of making yourself available to receive a pass. It is terribly simple.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">We are a team. We share the ball, we share the game, we share the worries.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">Pressure is working down the pit. Pressure is having no work at all. Pressure is trying to escape relegation on 50 shillings a week. Pressure is not the European Cup or the
Championship or the Cup Final. That's the reward.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">And on his supposed hatred of Everton...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">The difference between Everton and the Queen Mary is that Everton carry more passengers!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">When I've got nothing better to do, I look down the league table to see how Everton are getting along.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm25"></span></em><span class="tm17">If Everton were playing down the bottom of my garden, I'd draw the curtains.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm25"><span style="font-size: large;">In my time at Anfield we always said we had the best two teams on Merseyside - Liverpool and Liverpool reserves.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13"></span><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm13">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-59858280160128497172023-08-26T12:42:00.003+01:002023-08-28T20:12:30.936+01:00Post 485 - Grambling with pineapple chunks?<p> </p><p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8"></span><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see. </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">We have had singing postmen and a singing nun. Have any other professions been so badly paid that the workers have had to augment their wages by taking on a career in show business in this
way?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A. Smethurst.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">[The only one I can think of is the policeman who embarked on a second career of laughing, which doesn’t strike me as being much of a money spinner. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, you good people out there in gramblerland know that this insightful, hard-hitting blog often attempts to right wrongs... or is that wrong rights? No, I was right the first
time. It tackles controversial subjects head on. [Are you talking about this blog? The blog you call the world's greatest ill-informed blog? - Ed.] Well, another 'trend' has caught my ire. And that trend is...
toilet blocks. Sorry pardon excuse me what? No... not toilet blockages; toilet blocks - those things that hang inside a toilet bowl and provide a bit of a clean when you flush the loo.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Toilet blocks used to be very simple objects; a disc-like thing with a hole in it that hung on a wire inside the rim. I recall they had a strong but not unpleasant smell. (The same
thing is still used in many gents urinals. They smell the same but look like pineapple chunks... I wouldn't recommend eating them, though. ) They worked the same way as all the current ones on the market by slowly dissolving
to leave that fresh smell in the loo.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">They also lasted a long time; sometimes months.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I think toilet block makers have realised that, much like the bars of soap I spoke of in a previous blog (See </span><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com/2023/07/post-481-shrinking-gramble.html">Post 481 - A shrinking gramble</a></u></span>), large blocks take a long time to dissolve. They have come up with a brilliant wheeze to reduce that time from months to, not weeks, but what seems like days. What have they done? They have reduced the size to a quarter(ish)
of the previous block, but to make you think you are not losing out, there are four blocks in a plastic holder that hangs over the rim. However, because of the size difference, they dissolve a lot quicker than the old type.
Not only that, but the manufacturer can charge a heck of a lot more for the new ones. Ker-ching!</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I can deal with all that. Not too happy to be paying the higher price, more often as well but, as I said, I can, and do, deal with it. What really annoys me though is that when
you buy these toilet cleaners they come in a not insubstantial plastic holder. Each time the blocks dissolve, eye ee, frequently, this gets discarded. Why? We are constantly being reminded that plastics are bad for the environment,
because they don't biodegrade, and yet here is an object that is quite solid and could easily be used over and over but instead, it is being thrown away.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Daft, Oi calls it.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I have a solution. [You bloody would have. - Ed.] It sounds pretty radical, but it is this... A disc-like toilet block with a hole through it that hangs over the rim on a piece
of wire.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 19th of August? Of course there were. Here are some that even I
have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">James Nasmyth 1808 - Engineer and inventor.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Fyfe Robertson 1902 - TV journalist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Maurice Wilks 1904 - Automotive engineer. He is credited with designing the Land-Rover.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Patience Collier 1910 - Jobbing actress. Betsey Trotwood in </span><em><span class="tm8">David Copperfield</span></em><span class="tm9"> (the 1974 TV adaptation).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Rose Heilbron 1914 - High court judge. The first female judge to sit at the Old Bailey.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Lodge 1921 - Jobbing actor. Sam in </span><em><span class="tm8">Alexander the Greatest</span></em><span class="tm9">. 192 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ivan Owen 1927 - Voice actor. Provided the voice of Basil Brush.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bernard Levin 1928 - Journalist, author, broadcaster and intellectual.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IkvTFGsJIvrPy2vC8Qha8r7EEZpxt68dheWKNLeyRVjggoZGN1RhAowV5mLmTvXcMtsXTjh6_OlmYNjPF583ee1TvK-AgE6RXHM4f_DXRoRPIRSZqFRdfFhcbCmkP9gz4YFr1PrGHYIPnJM-HQhPtGttNHrwIQYu4RdPU6beoabFjzu0ldJonmycGEI/s351/bernard%20levin.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="294" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IkvTFGsJIvrPy2vC8Qha8r7EEZpxt68dheWKNLeyRVjggoZGN1RhAowV5mLmTvXcMtsXTjh6_OlmYNjPF583ee1TvK-AgE6RXHM4f_DXRoRPIRSZqFRdfFhcbCmkP9gz4YFr1PrGHYIPnJM-HQhPtGttNHrwIQYu4RdPU6beoabFjzu0ldJonmycGEI/s320/bernard%20levin.jpg" width="268" /></a></span></div><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Ah’m an interlectional so ah’m ur.’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ron Jones 1934 - Athleticky bloke look you.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Richard Ingrams 1937 - Journalist. Co-founder of Private Eye magazine and founding editor of The Oldie.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Peter ‘Ginger’ Baker 1939 - Musician. Known as rock’s first superstar drummer. Have a clip. Here Cream mime to </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hftgytmgQgE">Strange Brew.</a> Nice perm, Eric.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Roger Cook 1940 - Songwriter who had a few hits in his own right; mainly as co-vocalist in Blue Mink. Here’s a political-ish song which features some very non-politically correct
terms, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAWn4FO1MOw">Melting Pot.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tony Roper 1941 - Actor, comedian, playwright and writer. In fact, a right old smarty boots. He wrote what might well be the most popular Scottish play ever, The Steamie.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Billy J. Kramer 1943 - Singer. What does the J stand for in his name? Nothing, because his real name is William Howard Ashton. I suppose Billy H. Ashton doesn’t have quite
the same ring to it. Anyway, here is a track from Billy without his Dakotas, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTIkCMTRAwQ">1941.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Don Fardon 1943 - Singer. Here’s his big hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWVEM1idBj0">Indian Reservation.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Gillan 1945 - Singer and songwriter. Here’s the song with every budding guitarists’ favourite riff (complete with a little interview to explain it), </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7ZF2xaNhyw">Smoke on the Water.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Christopher Malcolm 1946 - Actor. Justin in </span><em><span class="tm8">Absolutely Fabulous</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tony Williams 1947 - Musician. One-time bassist with Jethro Tull. I bet you think I’m going to give you a link to a Jethro Tull song, but I’m not going to, because
Williams never played on any albums; he only played on tours. However, he was the bassist in a band which had a huge hit with this. All together now... </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMAIsqvTh7g">Well, I don't know why I came here tonight...</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jim Carter 1948 - Actor. Mr. Carson in </span><em><span class="tm8">Downton Abbey</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian McElhinney 1948 - Actor. Barristan Selmy in </span><em><span class="tm8">Game of Thrones</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jennie Bond 1950 - Journalist and TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Deacon 1951 - Ex-Queen bassist. Here’s a toon he’s credited with, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqyUAtzS_6M">Another One Bites the Dust.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jonathan Coe 1961 - Novelist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Hugh Schofield 1961 - Journalist. Paris correspondent for the Beeb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lucy Briers 1967 - Actress. Mrs. Stansfield Rawson in </span><em><span class="tm8">Gentleman Jack</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul McGrillen 1971 - Fitba guy. Ex-Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Scott Harrison 1977 - Boxy guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Darius Campbell Danesh 1980 - Singer and actor. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fc7VEQZVkLA">Kinda Love.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Simon Bird 1984 - Actor, director and producer. Adam Goodman in </span><em><span class="tm8">Friday Night Dinner</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Josh Law 1989 - Footy bloke. Ex-Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And now, what about the 26th of August?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Robert Walpole 1676 - The well-known Prime Minister.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm15">Joseph-Michel Montgolfier 1740</span><span class="tm9"> - Hot-air balloonist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Prince Albert 1819 - The well-known consort of Queen Vic.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Buchan 1875 - Novelist, historian and politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Hugh Dalton 1887 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Christopher Isherwood 1904 - Novelist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gilly Flower 1908 - Actress. Miss Agatha Tibbs in </span><em><span class="tm8">Fawlty Towers</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Willie Ormond 1926 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tony Brent 1927 - Singer. Have a clip. Here’s his best performing toon, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVWwUlsoQWA">Walkin' to Missouri.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Brian Duffy aka Jet Black 1938 - Musician. Drummer with ‘Punk’ band The Stranglers. A clip? Indeed. Here’s the band’s first single, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sah_IpjdQJI">Grip.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Cockerell 1940 - Broadcaster and journalist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nik Turner 1940 - Musician. Best known as woodwind player with Hawkwind. He did other stuff, though. Here’s Space Ritual with </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvSjHmYby4">Otherworld.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Curtis 1941 - Musician. Drummer with The Searchers. I think another clip is in order. Most Searchers’ singles were their take on songs performed by other artists.
This, however, was a song written for them by Tony Hatch: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKiyVuESyKg">Sugar and Spice.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jane Merrow 1941 - Actress. Anne Hepton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Hadleigh</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Stephen Greif 1944 - Actor. Harry Fenning in </span><em><span class="tm8">Citizen Smith</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alan Parker 1944 - </span><span class="tm15">Musician. As well as composing many themes for TV programmes including Angels, Minder, News at Ten and Coast, he was a session guitarist
for - among others - Blue Mink (see above), CCS, The Congregation and Serge Gainsbourg.</span><span class="tm9"> He also played guitar on this song from Donovan, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JR8k8jpT3tw">Hurdy Gurdy Man.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alison Steadman 1946 - Actress. Sue Jessop in </span><em><span class="tm8">Here We Go</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Don Masson 1946 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dan Cruickshank 1949 - Architectural historian and TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Annette Badland 1950 - Actress. Fleur Perkins in </span><em><span class="tm8">Midsomer Murders</span></em><span class="tm9">. 176 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Steve Wright 1954 - The British deejay, not the U.S. comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Howard Clark 1954 - Golfy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tony Morley 1954 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John O’Neill 1957 - Musician. Guitarist and principal songwriter for The Undertones. I think another clip is called for. Here’s one he penned, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66CCLS0do7c">Jimmy Jimmy.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Annie Holland 1965 - Musician. Bassist and co-founder of Elastica. Another clip? Why not. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ie4x8hWYYE">Stutter.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Gove 1967 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Chris Boardman 1968 - Bike racey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gaynor Faye 1971 - Actress. Cheryl in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Syndicate</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nicky Summerbee 1971 - Footy bloke. Mike’s lad.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Patrick Kennedy 1977 - Actor. Allston Wheatley in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Queen’s Gambit</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nish Kumar 1985 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lee Gregory 1988 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kyle Magennis 1998 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Scott Tiffoney 1998 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter; which is nice.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear (the late) Grambler Cook,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was wonderful to hear a track from your group Blue Mink. I know that Melting Pot reached number three in the UK; were any other singles as successful?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours fondly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAg8_STQMOs">D. Bannerman.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Kradboles fare? We won. Only kidding. We lost. Not a penny back. What happened? Read on...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Newcastle vs Aston Villa - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Newcastle 5 Aston Villa 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Alexander Isak's clinical finishing helped Newcastle United to an emphatic victory against Aston Villa on the opening weekend of the new Premier League campaign.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Newcastle tore into the visitors from the early stages and Sandro Tonali made their dominance count when he converted Anthony Gordon's inviting sixth-minute cross.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Moussa Diaby cancelled out his goal within five minutes, though, beautifully controlling a half volley with his weaker foot after Ollie Watkins' flick on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">But at the culmination of a frantic opening period Isak regained the lead for the Magpies as he slid home Sven Botman's cut-back across the box.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Isak delicately chipped Emiliano Martinez for his second to give the home side a two-goal cushion after Ezri Konsa inexplicably left the ball in his own penalty box.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Callum Wilson added a fourth following a slick passing move and Harvey Barnes raced clear to score, ensuring the Magpies followed up their superb 2022-23 campaign with an ideal
start.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Defender Tyrone Mings being carried off on a stretcher during the first half added to Villa's miserable day.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Cardiff vs QPR - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Cardiff 1 QPR 2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Sinclair Armstrong's close-range finish put the Rs in front in the first half.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Aaron Ramsey hit the bar as Cardiff pushed for an equaliser but they were picked off on the break as Armstrong teed up Kenneth Paal to score.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Ike Ugbo tapped in to give the hosts hope, while Mark McGuinness hit the bar in the 89th minute, but those efforts were too little too late for Cardiff.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Millwall vs Bristol City - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Millwall 0 Bristol City 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">After a fairly quiet first hour the Robins had looked most likely to break the deadlock but it was not until four minutes into added time that Harry Cornick's long-throw broke
to skipper Matty James to lash home the only goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">After a low-key opening 20 minutes, Millwall's Duncan Watmore saw a low shot blocked on the edge of the box by Zak Vyner while Dan McNamara lashed a volley well over Max O'Leary's
crossbar after a long throw from Zian Flemming on the half-hour.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">At the other end, Joe Williams had an effort charged down and Nahki Wells' shot deflected wide after a corner from James, while Sam Bell then had appeals for a penalty for
a challenge by McNamara waved away.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors continued to press after the break and Cam Pring almost slid in a far-post cross from Jason Knight, before George Tanner nodded a corner back into the area only for
Bell's header to slip past Matija Sarkic's post.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Bristol City sub Anis Mehmeti cut inside and curled inches past the upright soon after while fellow substitute Cornick had an effort blocked.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">O'Leary kept out a free-kick from Millwall replacement George Saville as the Lions almost snatched the win in the 90th minute, with Cornick blocking McNamara's follow-up,
and it was Cornick who set-up the winner four minutes later as his long throw eventually dropped for skipper James to lash home a flying volley.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Southampton vs Norwich - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Southampton 4 Norwich 4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the post!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Adam Armstrong scored a 97th-minute penalty as Southampton hit back to salvage a draw against Norwich City in an astonishing game at St Mary's.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">A frantic 16-minute spell before the break began when Josh Sargent headed in Jack Stacey's inviting cross, but Jan Bednarek smashed Saints level from close range and Armstrong's
first spot-kick of the afternoon made it 2-1 to the hosts.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The Canaries equalised within two minutes through a breathtaking strike from the outstanding Brazilian Gabriel Sara, who then teed up Jonathan Rowe to nod the visitors ahead before
the break.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Substitute Che Adams struck as Saints levelled again, only for fellow substitute Christian Fassnacht to capitalise on some sloppy late defending to fire in what looked like being
the winner.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">But Armstrong's dramatic intervention ensured neither side was able to maintain their 100% start to the season in a match that ended with 46 attempts on goal.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Watford vs Plymouth - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Watford 0 Plymouth 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Ooh! ’It the bar!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The Hornets started the stronger, Vakoun Bayo volleying just wide and Imran Louza hitting the outside of the post from range as the hosts looked to dominate.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">However, Plymouth proved to be plucky opponents and also threatened as Watford goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann looked nervy on the ball and twice presented openings to Ryan Hardie,
but the ball would not quite fall for the Scot.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The hosts were denied an opener either side of half-time by brilliant last-ditch defending from Dan Scarr, who blocked to thwart both Ryan Andrews and Bayo as the Pilgrims came
away with a deserved point.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s just call it a bad day, eh? What has The Grambler come up with this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Burton vs Bolton - Away win - Evens</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Oxford vs Charlton - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Port Vale vs Carlisle - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Wimbledon vs Forest Green - Home win - 20/23</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Newport vs Sutton - Home win - 20/21</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm16"></span><em><u><span class="tm17">£12.26</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Well, that’s more whoppinger than last time... Perhaps too whopping.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Maasmechelen, Belgium in 1994. I am a versatile player and have been used as a left winger, an attacking midfielder and also a forward. I began my senior career at Genk
and was loaned out to several clubs before moving to Brighton & Hove Albion in 2019. In January 2023, I moved to Arsenal. I have been capped for Belgium 26 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Leandro Trossard</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Who currently wears the number 9 shirt for Rangers?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Cyriel Dessers</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Scottish player scored the most Premier League goals last season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Che Adams (Southampton)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. In which country would you find the football stadium with the greatest capacity (150,000 approx.)?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - North Korea. I have been questioned about that, because it is not used solely as a football stadium but has been used for political rallies. I can only counter that many footy
stadiums are used for other purposes... Where else would Rod Stewart, Take that and their ilk hold their concerts? </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Here’s another mix up. Can you name the football team? (The letters are arranged in alphabetical order)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">ABCEEMMOR</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Morecambe.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s have some for this week. Are you ready? Let’s go...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Torquay, England in 1995. A forward, I began my senior career at Exeter City (having progressed through the youth ranks). In 2017 I was transferred to Championship club
Brentford before moving to my current club, Aston Villa, in 2020 for a fee of £28 million. I have been capped for England seven times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which Brazilian player scored the most Premier League goals last season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who scored over 100 goals for both Crystal Palace and Arsenal in the 1980s and 90s?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which English club plays home games at the Bet365 Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Here’s another name jumble. This time, it’s a footballer who was a prolific Premier League goalscorer in his day.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">NICE HOME LAW</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is a little out of date; it is now sitting at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><i><u><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;">£71,687</span></u></i></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm15">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to Mr. A. Roper for this week’s finishing link. You may remember Tony Roper from <i>Naked Video</i> or as Jamesie Cotter in <i>Rab C.
Nesbitt</i>, but this is his Shakespeare moment; a play he wrote which was set very much in the 1950s and very much in Glasgow and is very much what he’ll be remembered for... Ladeez and genullum, I give you </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3aCtBq6hrA">The Steamie.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm9">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-17690629542108581012023-08-12T12:10:00.001+01:002023-08-12T12:14:45.387+01:00Post 484 - Leave your gramble after the tone<p> <em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I recently spotted a man who looked exactly like Edward the seventh, the well-known monarch. I later found out that King Edward had been dead for over a hundred years, so it probably
wasn’t him.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Enid Flytip.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">A lot of people have been moaning lately... Well, more than usual... about how difficult it is to get a doctor's appointment. Complaints range from not being seen by a gp to
not even being able to phone a surgery.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">I have been having difficulties with the latter of these. Whenever I try to call the surgery the phone is ringing engaged... Well, it's ringing engaged to me, it's not
even ringing at the doctor's. And who is to blame? Me.<br />Sorry pardon excuse me? And you. What? And him</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">I shall explain. When I telephone my gp, the number is stored on the phone. I simply press a button and the call is made. When I hear the engaged tone, I press two buttons and
I have hung up and already redialled. Brilliant. It means that as soon as the doctor's number becomes free, I'll be right in there. Voosh! No, not voosh. Why not? Because I'm not the only one trying this tactic.
There could be hundreds trying the same trick... dozens anyway.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">It wasn't such a problem years ago when you had a telephone with an old-fashioned dial. It took a while to actually dial the number so, unless you had a lot of time on your
hands, you would try a couple of times and give up to try again later.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, however, with the press-two-buttons set up, you can keep dialling for hours on end without it interfering with your activities. Some phones are clever enough that they have
auto redial so you don't even need to press two buttons. You simply pick up the phone when you hear it finally ringing out; a bit like those annoying cold callers do.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Even worse, there may be more than one mobile phone in a household, so two or three phones might be doing the constant dial thing at the same time; the first to be heard ringing
out will be the one that gets picked up.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">All very clever, but also very frustrating because, if you are a person with access to only one telephone and are not fast at the button pressing, you might never get through.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">You used to be able to walk into a surgery and speak to the receptionist face to face but that option is no longer available; not since the covid pandemic. And if you are signed
up with a practice that hasn't embraced online technology (like the one I go to... there is such a thing as email nowadays you know! Yes, I'm talking to you, Doctor Mackintosh) your only means of contacting a doctor
is by phone.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">But, as always, I have a solution. [You bloody would have. - Ed.] Of sorts.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">You know how a phone is equipped such that certain numbers can't be cotacted. Well, mine is anyway. I have it set up that I can't use my landline to phone a mobile phone.
For some strange reason you are charged a fortune to use it to call a mobile. Any road up, if it is possible to set a phone up to not make certain calls, it should be possible to set it up that certain numbers must be dialled
every time rather than allow speed dial, or whatever it's called, to be used.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">How would it work, you ask. [Okay. How would it work? - Ed.] And I answer, how the f... how would I know. But the concept is this: certain numbers would only be able to be contacted
if the person making the call actually dials the number (Yes, I know you don't dial numbers any more, but I'm old-fashioned and I also think you, my loyal readers, are smart enough to know what I'm on about.).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Thus, numbers like 999 or 111 for emergency services could not be stored on a phone; nor would doctors, dentists or any other individuals you might need to contact... erm... hairdressers?
Whatever the case, as a certain bonkers ex prime minister might say, it's an absolutely spiffing wheeze.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">In fact, I think I should phone the Dragon's Den people, right now... Damn! I've got to dial their number.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 5th of August? Of course there were. Here are some that even I
have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joseph Merrick 1862 - Famously known as the Elephant Man, Merrick suffered from Proteus syndrome, possibly combined with neurofibromatosis.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Siddeley 1866 - Motor industry pioneer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Reginald Owen 1887 - Actor. Admiral Boom in </span><em><span class="tm8">Mary Poppins</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joan Hickson 1906 - Actress. Miss Marple in TV adaptations of several Agatha Christie novels. She was already 80 years old when she played the role.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Sharp 1920 - Jobbing actor. Mr Biggins in </span><em><span class="tm8">All Creatures Great and Small</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Carla Lane 1928 - Television writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jeffry Wickham 1933 - Actor. Seemed to specialise in legal types, often unnamed. He was Judge in </span><em><span class="tm8">Heartless</span></em><span class="tm9">, Solicitor General in </span><em><span class="tm8">Yes, Prime Minister</span></em><span class="tm9"> and Andrew Flint QC in </span><em><span class="tm8">Crown Court</span></em><span class="tm9">. [Ooh, he got a name in that one. - Ed.].</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Wanda Ventham 1935 - Actress. Col. Virginia Lake in </span><em><span class="tm8">UFO</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alan Howard 1937 - Actor. Oliver Cromwell in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Return of the Muskateers</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tim Preece 1938 - Writer and actor. Tom Patterson in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tam Paton 1938 - N*nc*.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Roger Clark 1939 - Rally driver bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rick Huxley 1940 - Musician. Bass guitarist with The Dave Clark Five. A clip? You betcha. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHtNFaa2ne0">Glad All Over.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Christopher Godwin 1943 - Jobbing actor. Another well-known facewho often plays unnamed characters such as Third Local, Magistrate’s Clerk, Barman or Recruitment Officer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andy Roxburgh 1943 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jan Francis 1947 - Actress. Penny Warrender in </span><em><span class="tm8">Just Good Friends</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ray Clemence 1948 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Barbara Flynn 1948 - Actress. Councillor Bone in </span><em><span class="tm8">Kate & Koji</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Pete Burns 1959 - Singer songwriter, best known for </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGNiXGX2nLU">this.</a> I know I’ve played it before, but it’s a cracking song.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Janet McTeer 1961 - Actress. Helen Pierce in </span><em><span class="tm8">Ozark</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mark Strong 1963 - Actor. Daniel Milton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Temple</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dougie Arnott 1964 - Fitba guy. Spent his entire playing career with Motherwell.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Colin McRae 1968 - Rally driver bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Karl Theobald 1969 - Actor. Martin Dear in </span><em><span class="tm8">Green Wing</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Spike Dawbarn 1974 - Singer. He is a member of ‘boy’ band 911. At 49 years of age? Boy band? Man band sounds even worse. Any road up, here’s the band’s
biggest hit, the old Doctor Hook song </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2r6tSPffQQ">A Little Bit More.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dan Hipgrave 1975 - Musician. Guitarist with Toploader. Here’s a hit. You could say it was their <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeT2dZHjaJs">Achilles Heel.</a></span><span class="tm9"> Do you get it? [Yes we do. You really shouldn’t bother. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Antony Cotton 1975 - Actor. Sean Tully in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Wayne Bridge 1980 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Kara Tointon 1983 - Actress. Betsey Day in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Halcyon</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Cindy Ofili 1994 - Athleticky bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Right then, what about the 12th of August?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">George IV 1762 - The well-known king. Looked nothing like Hugh Laurie.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Charles Landseer 1799 - Artist. The Monarch of the Glen, that was one of his.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Cadbury 1802 - Founder of... can you guess which chocolate making company?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Guy Gibson 1918 - A dam buster.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Fulton Mackay 1922 - Actor. Mr Mackay in </span><em><span class="tm8">Porridge</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ross ’n’ Norris McWhirter 1925 - Writers, political activists and TV presenters.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Dave Lee 1926 - Jazz musician, but also wrote </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DUZCXaStvnc">tosh like this.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Bluthal 1929 - Actor. Frank Pickle in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Vicar of Dibley</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Oliver Ford Davies 1939 - Actor. Peter Foxcott in </span><em><span class="tm8">Kavanagh QC</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Brunson 1940 - Journalist and TV news presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Craig Douglas 1941 - Singer. Had a few hits in the late 1950s and early 60s. He even had a number one with a cover of Sam Cooke's Only Sixteen. Here's a clip from one of those awful British films that were produced to cash in the popularity
of the then current crop of young singers. Introduced by Helen Shapiro, Craig ‘sings’ </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66pHJPfHHOE">Rainbows.</a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4l0C5QPbjYFUAvx78No6e-YVbIGcO3NXLDEhCsIZdj7AxPaY-8LaaaSx1rSLOO5RJPSQ2YtcHyPtd-tTIKsJnXnwf6UuiUvjnY_onDkg0lVPVxTUm259_-jxAhNa2H8KmSODxwgVkYKDPhEZUMoNg6vyMHic6QBuckNtGkYqj-FrfX35sWs_WQdrbOCY/s373/craig%20douglas.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4l0C5QPbjYFUAvx78No6e-YVbIGcO3NXLDEhCsIZdj7AxPaY-8LaaaSx1rSLOO5RJPSQ2YtcHyPtd-tTIKsJnXnwf6UuiUvjnY_onDkg0lVPVxTUm259_-jxAhNa2H8KmSODxwgVkYKDPhEZUMoNg6vyMHic6QBuckNtGkYqj-FrfX35sWs_WQdrbOCY/s320/craig%20douglas.jpg" width="286" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">... I was a mere lad of sixteen, I've aged a year since then.</span></div><br /><p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lesley Duncan 1943 - Singer-songwriter. Here’s her most famous tune, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYelRP3MzEw">Love Song.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Terry Nutkins 1946 - Naturalist. [What? He takes his clothes off? - Ed.] I think you did that gag last time he got a mention.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ozzie Yue 1947 - Actor and musician. Mr Wang in </span><em><span class="tm8">All Quiet on the Preston Front</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Terry Oldfield 1949 - Composer. Mike and Sally’s bruv.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mark Knopfler 1949 - Musician. A clip? But, of course. Here’s a bit of rockabilly, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GG5ghP8XLW8">The Bug.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Simon Groom 1950 - TV presenter, producer and director. He’s got a </span><em><span class="tm8">Blue Peter</span></em><span class="tm9"> badge.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Amanda Redman 1957 - Actress. Dr. Lydia Fonseca in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Good Karma Hospital</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Neil Cooper 1958 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Steven Hartley 1960 - Actor. Supt. Tom Chandler in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Bill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Roy Hay 1961 - Musician. He was guitarist with Culture Club. I can feel another clip coming. All together now </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bi0VBvp0zUY">Karma, karma, karma, karma, karma chameleon...</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Scott Crabbe 1968 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Paul Tucker 1968 - Musician. He played keyboards for Lighthouse Family. Cue another clip. Here’s their big hit (which, to me, sounds just like every other song they released),
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNqDvr87GTA">Lifted.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tanita Tikaram 1969 - Singer-songwriter. More music? Of course. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KssguPJIyz8">The Way You Move.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Richard McCourt 1976 - Comedian and actor. One half of comedy duo Dick & Dom. [Really? Which one is he? - Ed.] Groan...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tyson Fury 1988 - Boxy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tom Cleverley 1989 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter; which is nice.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Tanita Grambleram,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was wonderful to hear a track of yours. I recall you had a couple of hits early in your career - Good Tradition and Twist in My Sobriety - but what was your next best performing
single?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours in sobriety,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URflja3pE3Q">Kathy Dralsong.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Brakdoles fare? We won. Only kidding. We got a return of £1.68 from our £2.20 stake. 52 pees down. Not so good. Never mind. Let’s have
another try.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">At least the new footy season has started proper, so let’s have a crack at five games from the English and Scottish senior leagues on Saturday the 12th of August [The glorious
twelfth, they call it; when rich b*st*rds can shoot so-called game birds. I tell you, I’d be anything but game to get filled with half a pound of lead. - Ed.] Ahem, where was I? Oh yes. All games kick off at 3pm, except the first one listed; that’s
a 5.30pm kickoff.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Newcastle vs Aston Villa - Home win - 8/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Cardiff vs QPR - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Millwall vs Bristol City - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Southampton vs Norwich - Home win - 17/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Watford vs Plymouth - Home win - 8/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm16"></span><em><u><span class="tm17">£10.30</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Well, at least that’s a bit whoppinger than last time.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in 1957 in Chester-le-Street, County Durham. A midfielder, I began my senior career at West Bromwich Albion before signing for Manchester United in 1981 for a record-breaking
£1.5 million (a record that stood for six years). I ended my playing career at Middlesbrough as player/manager. I was capped 90 times for England. Though I have managed various clubs, my current involvement in football
is as a global ambassador for Manchester United.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Bryan Robson</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which player scored the most goals for Wales?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Gareth Bale with 41</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which non-English player has scored the most Premier League penalties?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Answer - </span><span class="tm13">Sergio Agüero</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at Prenton Park?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Tranmere Rovers</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Here’s something different, unscramble these letters to name a famous player past or present...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">RIPE PIRATE RINK</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Kieran Trippier [Sounds like he’s on something. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okeydokey, let’s have five for this week...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Maasmechelen, Belgium in 1994. I am a versatile player and have been used as a left winger, an attacking midfielder and also a forward. I began my senior career at Genk
and was loaned out to several clubs before moving to Brighton & Hove Albion in 2019. In January 2023, I moved to Arsenal. I have been capped for Belgium 26 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Who currently wears the number 9 shirt for Rangers?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Scottish player scored the most Premier League goals last season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. In which country would you find the football stadium with the greatest capacity (150,000 approx.)?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Here’s another mix up. Can you name the football team? (The letters are arranged in alphabetical order)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">ABCEEMMOR</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is a little out of date; it is now sitting at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£71,592</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to Messrs. J. Bluthal and S. Milligan for this week’s finishing item. I may well have given you a link to this in
the past, but this appeals to my childish sense of humour. Ladeez and genullum I give you The Fresh Fruit Song aka </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1s5wXIbHXI">The Raspbery King... again.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm9">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-31092919198621123172023-07-28T23:39:00.001+01:002023-07-28T23:39:27.570+01:00Post 483 - Grmblng<p> <em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I often get my holiday resorts mixed up and confuse Majorca with Menorca, so you can imagine my embarrassment when I was recently telling my friends about my holiday in Menorca and my wife had to point out that we had actually been on holiday in Skegness. She has also suggested that I try drying out for a period.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Terry Duckwit.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">[Have any other readers been so pissed on holiday that you didn’t know which country you were in? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Firstly, an update on the last (g)ramble concerning my bus pass. It arrived! Praise be to the lord!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to this week’s edition.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was reading an article recently that bemoaned the modern linguistic phenomenon of txt spk. Sorry pardon excuse me? Yes the annoying habit that mobile phone users (and a few pop
artistes when choosing a stage name) have of dropping their vowels. [Dropping their bowels? Yeurgh! - Ed.] Ahem...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The article went as far as to suggest that in years to come, vowels will no longer be used as they will be considered unnecessary.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I don't agree. Or should I say, dnt gr. There you are, it doesn't work; that was meant to say I don't agree. How, for example would you differentiate between sht, sht,
sht or indeed sht, not forgetting sht and sht? Those words were shot, shut, shout, sheet and shoot. [Hang on, there's one missing. - Ed.] Indeed there is. And that word is... yes, you at the back? No, that isn't the
word I meant, but I would certainly add it to the list if I could be certain there were no children reading this. No, the word I forgot was, of course, ashet.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It would be impossible to put into practice. What about the single-lettered words a and I? You see? Or should that be y s? Although, see wouldn't be such a problem as you could
substitute c. What about you though? [What about me? - Ed.] Ahem... U wouldn't exist so you couldn't substitute it. [What do you mean, I wouldn't exist? Of course I exist. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And what about bt as a word? Is that bat, bet, bit, bot, but, bate, bete, bite, beat, boat, beaut, abet, abut, abate or about? Or -bt for u-boat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, before long, letters will be totally forgotten about and replaced by pictographs as the Egyptians used thousands of years ago so there is no need for me to get my knckrs
n twst. Srry prdn xcs m?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yep. No need for letters in the future. We'll all be using emojis to convert our thoughts onto paper/computer/tablet/phone.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Smiley face, pencil, picture of book.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 22nd of July? Of course there were. Here are some that even I have
heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">James Beaumont Neilson 1792 - </span><span class="tm15"> Inventor whose hot-blast process greatly increased the efficiency of smelting iron. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">William Spooner 1844 - Oxford don whose name was given to the habit of getting mords wuddled up. He was something of a shining wit, apparently.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">James Whale 1889 - Film director.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Bryan Forbes 1926 - Film director and actor. Played the character of Porthill in </span><em><span class="tm8">The League of Gentlemen</span></em><span class="tm9"> (The 1961 film.).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFRrP4bBfkCGZ1IO3u76T9M5EjC5BUgKEg1daNua8ZeztktcCIS8iznoLURVrdOUoXtinRyd80ZloQs6ekLNmL0gp2b62WivOQEmJByATutCgO7uBfu-gUL1gCC4XcEVWmTBnroTVc8RAYckGKTKAIonk5UyZj_82xIQ0X1b1XEWLxZ9dP4g6_Soh7NCg/s450/bryan-forbes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="324" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFRrP4bBfkCGZ1IO3u76T9M5EjC5BUgKEg1daNua8ZeztktcCIS8iznoLURVrdOUoXtinRyd80ZloQs6ekLNmL0gp2b62WivOQEmJByATutCgO7uBfu-gUL1gCC4XcEVWmTBnroTVc8RAYckGKTKAIonk5UyZj_82xIQ0X1b1XEWLxZ9dP4g6_Soh7NCg/s320/bryan-forbes.jpg" width="230" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I keep telling you, I’ve never been to Royston Vasey.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jimmy Hill 1928 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Vivien Merchant 1929 - Actress. Mrs Pinter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jeremy Lloyd 1929 - Actor and writer. Mr Lumley... but only between May and September 1970.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Harold Rhodes 1936 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Terence Stamp 1938 - Actor. Billy Budd in </span><em><span class="tm8">Billy Budd</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gary Myers 1941 - Actor. Who? You may remember him as The Milk Tray Man.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joyce Williams 1944 - Tennisy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rick Davies 1944 - Musician. Vocalist and keyboard man in Supertramp. A clip? I should bl**dy think so. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4ys6YSfJDA">Bl**dy Well Right.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nick Brimble 1944 - Actor. Jack Chapman in </span><em><span class="tm8">Grantchester</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Cammy Fraser 1957 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Adam Godley 1964 - Actor. Archbishop in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Great</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Bonnie Langford 1964 - Showbiz legend. Mel Bush in </span><em><span class="tm8">Doctor Who</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rhys Ifans 1967 - Actor and musician. Spike in </span><em><span class="tm8">Notting Hill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Stephen Mangan 1972 - Actor. Nathan Stern in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Split</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ross Millard 1982 - Musician. Frontman of The Futureheads. A clip? Why not. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awjE92YZeEQ">Hounds of Love.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stewart Downing 1984 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Chris Opie 1987 - Bike racey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Matty James 1991 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Prince George of Wales 2013 - The well-known royal sprog. Doesn’t actually live in Wales.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, then. Were there any famous/notorious folk born on the 29th of July. Of course there were and here are some that I recognise.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jo Grimond 1913 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alexander Gauge 1914 - Actor. Friar Tuck in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Adventures of Robin Hood</span></em><span class="tm9">. Here’s a thing; the intro song goes ‘Robin Hood, Robin Hood, riding through the glen...’ When? I never saw him on a horse.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ivo Peters 1915 - Railway photographer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Stella Moray 1923 - Actress. Joan in </span><em><span class="tm8">Maisie Raine</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Peter Baldwin 1933 - Actor. Derek Wilton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Hildegarde Neil 1939 - Actress. Cleopatra in </span><em><span class="tm8">Antony and Cleopatra</span></em><span class="tm9">. Here’s a thing: Why is Marc Antony, a Roman, called Marc Antony? Every other male in Roman history has a name ending in ‘us’. Surely, he should be Marcus Antonius. Discuss.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Allan McGraw 1939 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jeremy Paul 1939 - Screenwriter who also co-wrote </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZCEBibnRM8">this famous little tune.</a> Wrong time of year, admittedly.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Warner 1941 - Actor. Morgan in </span><em><span class="tm8">Morgan: A Suitable Case for Treatment</span></em><span class="tm9">. 227 credits on IMDb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Taylor aka The Silver Fox 1943 - Snookery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Bill Forsyth 1946 - Film director.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Diane Keen 1946 - Actress. Fliss Hawthorne in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Cuckoo Waltz</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Geoffrey Durham 1949 - Magician. Used to bill himself as The Great Nobendo... sorry, that should read, Soprendo.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joe Johnson 1952 - Snookery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Viv Anderson 1956 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Marcus Gilbert 1958 - Actor. Rupert Campbell-Black in </span><em><span class="tm8">Riders</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Martin McCarrick 1962 - Musician. A Banshee from 1987 to 1995. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpcNaqkrPm8">Kiss Them For Me.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Graham Poll 1963 - Footy reffy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Miles Hunt 1966 - Musician. Frontman with The Wonder Stuff. Let’s have another clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6y0DjSMbLA">Size of a Cow.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sally Gunnell 1966 - Athleticky bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Giles Coren 1969 - TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andi Peters 1970 - Producer? Actor? I only know him as the bloke that does the big quiz thing on morning TV.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Walliams 1971 - Comedian, actor and currently Britain’s new Roald Dahl... Not sure that we needed one, but we’ve got one, nevertheless.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Simon Jones 1972 - Musician. He was the bassist with The Verve. Shall we have another clip? Why not. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jmf9UQ3YIs">History.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jamie Hamill 1986 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jay Rodriguez 1989 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rosie Bentham 2001 - Actress. Gabby Thomas in </span><em><span class="tm8">Emmerdale</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received another letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Gramblin McCarrick,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was wonderful to hear a track from Siouxie and the Banshees. It seems absolutely ages since the band had a hit. Can you tell me what their last top 20 single was called?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours wholeheartedly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGH_16SICL0">P. Kaboo.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Bradkoles fare? We won... in a way. We got a return of £1.78 from our £2.20 stake. 42 pees down. Not so good. Never mind. Let’s have
another try. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">What games are available this weekend? Well, the Women’s World Cup Qualifiers are taking place right now, so let’s have some more games from the preliminary stage of the
Scottish League Cup? Yeah, why not. All games kick off at 3pm, Saturday, the 29th of July.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Bonnyrigg Rose vs Airdrieonians - Away win - 8/13</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Ayr vs Alloa - Home win - 8/15</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Hamilton vs Cove Rangers - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Arbroath vs Montrose - Home win - 20/23</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Queens Park vs Queen of the South - Home win - 4/7</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm17"></span><em><u><span class="tm18">£8.24</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Obviously, this is a different meaning for the word ‘whopping’. Blame those ridiculously short odds.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1963. I moved to England aged 12. A left back, I played for Watford before moving to Liverpool. My playing career ended with short spells at Newcastle
United and Charlton Athletic. I was capped for England 79 times. I tried my hand at management, but things didn’t work out too well... I should have stuck to rapping.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - John Barnes</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which player has won the most England caps while he was at Liverpool?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Steven Gerard (114)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Another car-related one, which car company is associated with Manchester United?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Chevrolet</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which Argentinian scored the most Premier League goals last season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Alexis MacAllister (10)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club has the nickname, The Chairboys?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Wycombe Wanderers</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Shall we have five for this week? Of course we shall.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in 1957 in Chester-le-Street, County Durham. A midfielder, I began my senior career at West Bromwich Albion before signing for Manchester United in 1981 for a record-breaking
£1.5 million (a record that stood for six years). I ended my playing career at Middlesbrough as player/manager. I was capped 90 times for England. Though I have managed various clubs, my current involvement in football
is as a global ambassador for Manchester United.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which player scored the most goals for Wales?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which non-English player has scored the most Premier League penalties?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at Prenton Park?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Here’s something different, unscramble these letters to reveal the name of a famous player past or present...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">RIPE PIRATE RINK</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><u><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></u></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is a little out of date; it is now sitting at...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><i><u><b><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">£71,431</span></b></u></i></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Mr. C. Murray who provides us with our finishing item. C. Murray? Chic Murray to you and me. He appeared in one of
Bill Forsyth’s early films, Gregory’s Girl, playing the laid-back headmaster. It is one of my favourite films and I particularly like this little snippet. And, if I’ve used it before, I make no apologies,
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FWovgOzmFU">it always makes me smile.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm9">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-34541269303296283582023-07-14T22:21:00.002+01:002023-07-14T22:21:56.009+01:00Post 482 - A grambling bus pass!<p> </p><p class="Normal tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8"></span><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see. </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I have just watched a television programme called Breaking Dad with Bradley Walsh and Barney Walsh. I couldn’t help noticing a likeness between them. Are they related?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Emily Pope.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Here is a comedy sketch I recall from many years ago...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A man walks into a large office building and studies the board showing where all the departments are situated. We see that he is looking for the complaints department. He sets off
in the direction of the arrow. He walks along corridors following the arrow as indicated. As he progresses, he has to go through several doors, up flights of stairs, down flights of stairs but eventually he does come to a
door marked Complaints. He opens the door and 'enters' only to find himself in the open air outside the building. Oh how we laughed. I can't recall who performed the sketch. It could have been Dave Allen or Marty
Feldman. I've no idea, but it makes a good introduction to this week's rant.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you have a bus pass? [That's a bit of a leap, isn't it? - Ed.] No, bear with me; it will make sense, eventually. Yes. Bus pass. Are you old enough to warrant free travel?
Actually, it isn't fair to assume that you are getting on in years; here in Scotland, anyone under the age of 22 is also entitled to free bus travel. So, only people aged between 23 and 59 have to pay a bus fare. Even
then, not everyone in that age range has to pay; disabled... sorry, differently abled... people are also entitled to travel without paying.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Why do I tell you this? Pull up a chair and I'll tell ee...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">A couple of weeks ago I stepped onto a bus, placed my bus pass onto the reader and told the driver my destination. That is what I have done ever since I first got my entitlement
card. He looked at the card quizzically. 'Try it again,' he said. It was then that I noticed the expiry date on my card... three days previous to this journey. Luckily, the driver realised that it was an honest mistake
and allowed me to get on the bus without paying.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, in the past, when the expiry date on the card was impending, a new card would be posted out to me. I didn't have to re-apply. I naturally thought the same would happen
when this card expired, but for some reason it hadn't.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh dearie me, I thought... words to that effect, anyway. I decided to check this out, so I telephoned the number printed on the, now out-of-date, card.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">As always when you phone any business these days, I was first put through to a recorded message which gave me options to select. So, after selecting one... or was it two?... I was
given a few more options. And so it went on. Between each selection there was a bit of spiel about the card-supplying-business wanting to give the best service possible and such drivel. Eventually, after five... or was it
six?... selections from me, the final message was a different voice... 'The other person has cleared.' What?! I've just spent fifteen minutes trying to get through to someone and all that happened was that the
call was terminated. Grrr!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">One option given during the call was for me to go online. [What if you don't live near a railway line? - Ed.] Ahem... So, I tried that. That led me to a different phone number.
Aha, I thought, now we're getting somewhere.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I phoned the number and, somehow, had a feeling of deja vu. It may have had something to do with the same options cropping up or the exact same advice being given. Anyway, at least
it sounded as if I was going into a queue, because the recorded message did say that all the operators were busy. That was followed by, 'The other person has cleared.' I don't believe it! (Said in my best Victor
Meldrew voice.) Double grrr!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I headed back online to see if there was any other way of speaking to somebody. Aha! An email address. At last.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I typed out my message expressing my dissatisfaction with the service, I gave my phone number (one that will be answered by a human being, not a machine) and pressed send.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Within minutes there was a response. Hallelujah!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">No, not hallelujah, it was an automatic reply and guess what... it told me to phone one of the numbers I had phoned earlier. No grrr this time; just abject despair.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">After this latest setback, I really didn't know what to do. I had seemingly exhausted all the options for renewing my card.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I figured that the only thing I could try was to apply for a card as if I was a new applicant.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Initially, things seemed to progress nicely. I must have answered at least ten questions before the first problem. Apparently, I couldn't progress with my application until
I had registered. Sorry, pardon, what? Why? I'd never had to 'register' in the past, so what was different this time?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It seemed to be a stumbling block, so I had no option but to fill in all my personal details. To register, I had to choose a user name and a password. Next problem? No matter what
I entered as a password, it got rejected. Triple grrr!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was informed that my password had to have at least one of the following: a capital letter, a lower-case letter, a number and a grammatical symbol such as a comma. It has, you
stupid machine!!!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">You'll gather that I was getting a bit exasperated. Just a tad.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I read the incredibly small print accompanying the password instructions showing what grammatical symbols could be used. There was an asterisk, a bracket symbol, a comma, exclamation
mark, question mark... in fact, every symbol you could think of except the one I was trying to use: a full bloody stop!! Aaarrgh!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Having sorted that, I was instructed to go to my email messages. Lo and behold, there was a message from the travel entitlement card people. It instructed me to 'click on the
link'. I did this and was transported to the very first page of the online document I had spent the best part of an afternoon trying to fill in. Have you ever seen a grown man cry? Not a pretty sight.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Right, off we go again. Luckily, having now registered, when I reached that part of the form, I sailed through without any difficulties. Yay!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">We're cooking now, I thought. I came to the part of the form asking for evidence that I was who I claimed to be. Photographic evidence was required.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Document with my address? Tick. No problem. Passport page with photo on it? Tick. This is easy. Photograph of face? Tick? No not tick. Whenever I pressed the 'send' option,
my picture was rejected. I was beginning to wonder if the picture had to be of passport quality with eyes staring straight at the camera, when I noticed that the maximum size of the image had to be less than 10mb. Could that
be the problem? I then had to go into my pictures file and find the image I was trying to use. When I eventually found it, its size was, oh come on... 10.2mb?! So, having shaved a little off the sides, I managed to get it
below the magic 10. Thankfully, that was indeed the problem and the resized photo was accepted. Thank goodness for that, now, what's next? Face recognition? You what? I've just spent ages trying to put a photo in and
now I've to do it again?!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">No, this was different. I now had to face my laptop and keep still while staring at the camera to allow my face to be... er... recognised, I suppose. First try... too blurry. Try
again. Too close. Try again. Too far away. Try again and so it went on until eventually, after about a dozen attempts, my face was recognised. Jeez!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I got right through the form and reached the very last question... huzzah!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I allowed the little pointer (I know all the computery words) to hover over the 'submit' field, closed my eyes and pressed the enter key. Please work.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I opened my eyes to be met with the words I wanted to see, 'Your application has been submitted.' Not yay, but phew.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">At last, after what seemed like weeks, but was probably only a few days, my application had been successfully submitted.*</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It is all rather sad that a system providing assistance for older people and disabl... differently abled... people is designed in such a way that the very people it is aimed at
would find it difficult to negotiate. I know a lot of older people who just don't have any kind of computery type gadget. I also know some that do have such devices but are totally baffled as to how they work. How are
such people supposed to apply for a bus pass?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Before, I end, there was one part of the message regarding my successful application that made me laugh out loud. It read, 'Your new entitlement card should be with you in about
ten working days. If there is any problem please phone...' Need I go on? Yep, it was one of those phone numbers again. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Did I say I laughed out loud? I meant I laughed maniacally.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">* A couple of days later I received an email from the entitlement card provider telling me that my application had to be resubmitted, because a date on one of the images was unclear
(I’m guessing the passport page as that was the only submission that had any date reference.). I sought out my passport and scanned the page in question. This time, I checked it thoroughly to make sure that all the
information on it was legible.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As I write this, my application has been submitted and I await my new card. Hopefully, there will be no other glitches to hinder it being issued. In the meantime, I will just
have to do what the </span><s><span class="tm13">majority</span></s><span class="tm9"> minority of folk have to do... pay for using a bus.**</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">** a wee update. My application has just been refused for a second time. I have, once again, tried to upload the correct information but I have a feeling that it will not be enough.
I’ll keep you posted. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 8th of July? Of course there were. Here are some that even I have
heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Vic Oliver 1898 - Actor and radio comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Erik Chitty 1907 - Actor. Mr. Smith in </span><em><span class="tm8">Please Sir!</span></em><span class="tm9"> 226 credits on IMDb in a career lasting 40 years.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Myles Rudge 1926 - Songwriter. He wrote novelty songs such as Right Said Fred and Hole in the Ground, both recorded by Bernard Cribbins. He also wrote this song made popular by
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjPNO-A-Fqw">Ronnie Hilton.</a> Factoid: David Bowie recorded that one too.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian Walden 1932 - Politician and TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Marty Feldman 1934 - Actor, comedian and comedy writer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Tony Warren 1936 - Television scriptwriter who gave us Corrie.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Polly James 1941 - Actress. Beryl in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Liver Birds</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael Dunford 1944 - Musician. Songwriter and arranger with Renaissance. Have another clip. He wrote this one, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ox_hzO6SIAY">Rajah Khan.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sarah Kennedy 1950 - TV and radio broadcaster. Factoid: She is credited with the expression (beloved of the media) ‘White van man’.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mike Walling 1950 - Actor, writer and songwriter. Eric in </span><em><span class="tm8">Brush Strokes</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Aaronovitch 1954 - Journalist, broadcaster and author.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark Tavener 1954 - Writer, humorist and dramatist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Monty Don 1955 - Gardener.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Parfitt 1958 - Child actor and now producer. Peter Harrison/Redway in </span><em><span class="tm8">And Mother Makes Three/Five</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andrew ‘Fletch’ Fletcher 1961 - Musician. Keyboardist with Depeche Mode until his death in 2022. A clip? Indeed. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neLkIPJsSfc">Soothe My Soul.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark Halsey 1961 - Footy ref.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Christopher Chaplin 1962 - Actor and musician. Son of Charlie and Oona.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Matthew Wright 1965 - Journalist and TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kevin Friend 1971 - Another footy ref.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ellen MacArthur 1976 - Sailor.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alex Fletcher 1976 - Actress. Diane O’Connor/Hutchinson in </span><em><span class="tm8">Hollyoaks</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stevie Nicholas 1981 - Fitba guy. Ex-Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Leanne Ross 1981 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jamie Cook 1985 - Musician. An Arctic Monkey. Here’s a clip, chosen simply because I liked the title, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FY5CAz6S9kE">There'd Better be a Mirrorball.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, then. Were there any famous/notorious folk born on the 15th of July. Of course there were and here are some that I recognise.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Emmeline Pankhurst 1858 - Suffragette.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Noel Gay 1898 - Composer. He wrote this one, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUbB1qe6BR0">Leaning on a Lamppost.</a> [Funny place to be writing songs. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ronald Binge 1910 - Composer. As well as writing Elizabethan Serenade (See </span><u><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com/2023/06/post-479-grambling-back-in-style.html">Post 479 - Grambling back in style.</a></u></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span>) he wrote this rather </span><span>lovely piece, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwl9cf9uUFQ">The Watermill.</a></span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Hammond Innes 1913 - Orfer. Campbell’s Kingdom, that was one of his.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Arthur Lovegrove 1913 - Jobbing actor whose craggy appearance made him the ideal choice for unnamed roles such as Tough man on underground train, Thug, 2nd Crook, Man having altercation
in cinema and, my own favourite, Man being fingerprinted.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Iris Murdoch 1919 - Orfer. The Unicorn, that was one of hers.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jean Heywood 1921 - Actress. Bella Seaton in </span><em><span class="tm8">When the Boat Comes In</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Angus MacKay 1926 - Actor. He always seemed to play clergymen, posh cheps or pompous official types. Like Arthur Lovegrove, his roles didn’t always have a name. These include
Clergyman, First Secretary to The Treasury, Vicar, School master, Bank clerk, Priest and Tribunal chairman.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ann Jellicoe 1927 - Playwright, theatre Director and actress. She wrote the play (later made into a film) </span><em><span class="tm8">The Knack</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jimmy Leadbetter 1928 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Brian Sewell 1931 - Critic. See </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com/2015/09/week-8-fish-are-gramblin-and-cotton-is.html">Week 8 - Brian Sewell - the haughty culturalist.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHbZRQPFyoscC4ub7oFNyOj1nYlWkkkpSrIOiUsVRYN_GsGPlJwWE7O2-HwxqtwM-hC4DxIo4Srnqigd1qfdX4KechXtqk_A5tEf1jpgQs3qV6VcuHLIrRhWaMDQdWncgypOat4G-jA7FJqB7OlsCQrdH4wPRFdLAhb65pHStvfUKDdzaty7MGv5a2pQ/s763/briansewell.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="763" data-original-width="630" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHbZRQPFyoscC4ub7oFNyOj1nYlWkkkpSrIOiUsVRYN_GsGPlJwWE7O2-HwxqtwM-hC4DxIo4Srnqigd1qfdX4KechXtqk_A5tEf1jpgQs3qV6VcuHLIrRhWaMDQdWncgypOat4G-jA7FJqB7OlsCQrdH4wPRFdLAhb65pHStvfUKDdzaty7MGv5a2pQ/s320/briansewell.jpg" width="264" /></a></span></div><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Oo d'ya fink you're looking at? I'll smash yer face in.</span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Julian Bream 1933 - Strummer. Here’s a wee bit cult’yer fur yeez, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyY5pB2a0cU">Vivaldi's Lute Concerto in D.</a> [What a snappy title. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Harrison Birtwistle 1934 - Composer. Ur yeez waantin’ mair cult’yer? Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HvyfJvwYUmQ">Guitar and White Hand.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Jackson 1934 - Actor. Olag Gan on </span><em><span class="tm8">Blake’s 7</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">William G. Stewart 1935 - TV producer and quiz show host.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Robert Winston 1940 - Scientist and TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Geoffrey Burgon 1941 - Composer. He wrote the main themes for The Life of Brian and Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, but I have chosen this, the main theme for </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAxhcjyKxGo">Brideshead Revisited.</a> Err ye go eh? Mair cult’yer.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Derek Griffiths 1946 - Actor. Do you remember </span><em><span class="tm8">Super Ted</span></em><span class="tm9">? He provided Super Ted’s voice.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Peter Banks 1947 - Musician. He was the original guitarist with Yes before getting the order of the boot. Here’s a clip from the first Yes album: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcJImyeeaZ8">Beyond and Before.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tony O’Malley 1948 - Musician. Ooh, a chance for another really old song link... He was keyboard player from very early seventies band, Arrival. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPDABrDR_P8">Friends.</a> Try not to think about the scary man at the beginning.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lynn Ripley aka Twinkle 1948 - Singer. She had a couple of hits. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S76TECd53dc">Golden Lights.</a> Oh no! There’s that scary man again.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Trevor Horn 1949 - Musician and record producer. Yes (the band) have had a few line up changes over the years. The strangest change was probably for the album called Drama. Singer
Jon Anderson had quit, as had Rick Wakeman. Wouldn’t it be a jolly wheeze to stick pop duo Buggles (Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes) in as replacements. The band were jokingly referred to as Yuggles (Oh, how we laughed.) and the resulting album wasn’t as bad as that suggests it might
be. Here’s a track from it: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXhYsMEjsZ8">Into The Lens.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Geoffrey Richardson 1950 - Musician. He played violin for Caravan, so here’s another real oldie: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HA3FYzkzeC0">Surprise, Surprise.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Robson 1950 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Celia Imrie 1952 - Actress. Diana in </span><em><span class="tm8">After You’ve Gone</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Curtis 1956 - Singer with Joy Division. Have a clip. Here is </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EdUjlawLJM">Atmosphere</a>. [I preferred the Russ Abbott version. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Milliband 1965 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jason Bonham 1966 - Drummer, like his dad.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jill Halfpenny 1975 - Actress. Diane in </span><em><span class="tm8">In The Club</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Julienne Taylor 1981 - Singer. A clip? Here she asks us to </span><span class="tm9"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dur-yLklvJE">Just Let Me Be.</a> [Let me be what? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Simon Hooper 1982 - Footy ref.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Olly Alexander 1990 - Musician, singer, songwriter and actor. Ritchie Tozer in </span><em><span class="tm8">It’s a Sin</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Matt Grimes 1995 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Elyar 1995 - Singer. A clip? Here he wants to </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IbXgqliiAI">Do It All Over Again.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received another letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Grambly Cook,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">My mum, Wendy, is a great fan of your band, The Arctic Monkeys. I thought that you only had one number one single with I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor, but she is adamant
that your follow-up single also hit the top spot. Is she right and, if so, what was it called?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours devotedly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqkBRVukQmE">Wendy's son, Gus Down.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Baldrokes fare? We won... Sort of. We got a return of £2.12 from our £2.20 stake. Eight pees down. Never mind. Let’s have another try.
</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s try again. What games are available this weekend? What about some games from the prliminary stage of the Scottish League? Yeah, let’s give it a go. All games
kick off at 3pm, Saturday, the 15th of July.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Stirling vs Ayr - Away win - 8/13</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Forfar vs Cowdenbeath - Home win - 8/15</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Clyde vs Hamilton - Away win - 5/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Kelty Hearts vs Morton - Away win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Peterhead vs Partick - Away win - 1/2</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm17"></span><em><u><span class="tm18">£7.94</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">That is even worse than last time. Whopping? Don’t think so.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Porto Alegre, Brazil in 1980. I began my senior career at Grêmio before moves to Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, AC Milan, Flamengo, Atlético Mineiro, Querétaro
and Fluminense. I was capped for Brazil 97 times. I am the only player ever to have won a World Cup, a Champions League, a Copa America, a Confederations Cup, a Copa Libertadores and a Ballon d’Or. I am known by the
nickname O Bruxo (The Wizard).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Ronaldinho</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which current Premier League player has scored the most penalties?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Harry Kane (33)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which two clubs have spent the longest time in the second tier of English football (41 seasons) without ever reaching the top league?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Port Vale and Plymouth Argyle</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. The car manufacturer Lotus is associated with which club?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Norwich City</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which English club currently plays its home games at the Keepmoat Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Doncaster Rovers (The stadium is now known as the Eco-Power Stadium because of sponsorship.)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How about five for this week? Aye, go on then.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1963. I moved to England aged 12. A left back, I played for Watford before moving to Liverpool. My playing career ended with short spells at Newcastle
United and Charlton Athletic. I was capped for England 79 times. I tried my hand at management, but things didn’t work out too well... I should have stuck to rapping.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which player has won the most England caps while he was at Liverpool?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Another car-related one, which car company is associated with Manchester United?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which Argentinian scored the most Premier League goals last season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club has the nickname, The Chairboys?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is a little out of date; it is now sitting at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9" style="color: #cc0000;"><i><u>£71,431</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, you may recall that our last gramble ended with a clip from David Prowse who also ended our gramble for the same date in 2017. Now, all
you readers out there in Gramblerland must be wondering why I am alluding to this. Surely, you’re not going to pull the same trick twice, you might be saying. Sadly, I am, because this week’s closing item comes from
none other than Marty Feldman who, those of you who have stuck with the blog over the years will remember, provided the final item for the corresponding week six years ago with </span><span class="tm9"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lpq-1B_OTbY">Funny he never married.</a> That was only an audio clip, as the accompanying video seems to have disappeared. This time, I have found a video clip which features the brilliant ‘Lightning Coach Tours’ sketch. It also features
a very non-pc, non-woke sketch featuring an ever-so-slightly biased football match commentator. </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZ8eMXTt6tU">You have been warned.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm9">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-51767462163612053132023-07-01T14:05:00.000+01:002023-07-01T14:05:06.586+01:00Post 444 - Grambling at the hotel de posh<p><em style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p><div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-3770415719601641755" itemprop="description articleBody" style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 696.667px;"><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span><span class="tm9"> </span></em><u><a href="https://www.justgiving.com/Geraldine-Smith3" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;"><span class="tm9">https://www.justgiving.com/Geraldine-Smith3</span></a><span class="tm10"> .</span></u></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"></span></u></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b>If you are thinking, I've seen this before, let me explain. There has been some unusual activity on the original post. I have no idea why, but the number of 'visits' to this particular post is something like ten times the normal. Hmm... something dodgy going on, methinks. So, I have decided to delete the original and re-post it, in full. Okay with that? Good. Now, read on and enjoy (a feeling of deja vu)...</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mrs G have been globetrotting again. We have and all. Two nights in sunny Ayr (pronounced Err). In these days of pandemic, 30 miles down the A77 is quite enough globe for us to trot, thank you.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">We did stay in a rather nice hotel and in a very nice room. I would like to say it had a pleasant outlook, but it didn’t. Indeed, it had no outlook at all, as the windows were of frosted glass in order to obscure the view of the fans on the roof of the hotel kitchen. Not that it mattered. The room had the usual hotel bedroom requirements of bed, wardrobe, bedside tables and the like, but it was so large that it also featured a three-piece suite and a large coffee table. The sofa faced a wall on which was mounted the largest television screen I have seen outside of Currys. I reckon it was in the region of 65 inches (165 cm).</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The bathroom had the usual quota of toilets (one) and baths (one), but had two sinks and a double shower. so, while Mrs G was soaking in the bath, I could have had both showers operating at different temperatures and alternated between hot and cold as I desired. I didn’t, of course, but I could have done. All, very poash.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There was something that spoiled this huge bathroom and it was nothing to do with the fittings per se [Who’s Percy? - Ed.]. At first, I couldn’t work out quite what it was. There was something about this vast room that just wasn’t right. It was the colour of the various pipes and supports. Somebody, in their wisdom, decided that it might be classier to use, not chromed pipes and fittings but, copper-coloured materials. Sadly, unlike chrome, the colour ‘copper’ is far from uniform. Thus, the colours of the metalwork ranged from almost silver, but not quite gold, through to a very dark, almost black, bronze. In between, there were hues such as almost yellow for the taps and a bright orange for the pipes leading into the radiators. Unlike the greys in that quality tome, by E.L. (of a lot of dosh from a trashy novel) James, it wasn’t fifty shades, but it wasn’t far off it.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Was there any actual copper pipework? Oh yes. It was green.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">While we were staying in this very pleasant establishment, we enjoyed some very nice grub. After our first evening’s meal, we adjourned to the lounge and ordered a glass of wine each. After a while, we were joined by another couple who asked if they could sit with us. Not a problem. We were soon swapping tales of family, exchanging opinions on the hotel and discussing other places we had visited. While we were happy to drink our glasses of wine, they were ordering glasses of Drambuie to see them through the evening.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">After a pleasant couple of hours, they decided it was time to head for bed and left us to finish our drinks. That done, we also decided to head to our room to sample our private cinema.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Before we left the lounge area, we asked the bar staff if we could sign for our drinks to be added to our room bill. No problem. The barman went through the ‘tab’ to check...</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘So, that’s two glasses of wine and five Drambuies...’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘(Splutter, cough) What?’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Yes. Your drinks and those of the couple sitting with you.’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘But... They weren’t with us. I don’t even know their name... She referred to him as Davie. That’s all I know.’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Leave it with me, sir.’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Luckily, we weren’t going to be charged for those liqueurs, but we thought the worst. Were we being duped by this couple? Surely not. They seemed quite genuine. Although, we didn’t see where they went after they left the lounge. Did they head to their room? Did they even have a room? We hadn’t spotted where they had come from when they joined us. Maybe, they had walked in off the street and, on leaving us in the lounge, simply took a right turn at reception and headed back out into the street, happy that they had pulled off a scam which got them an evening of free drinks. Perhaps this was how they spent their nights, seeking out gullible individuals like us to pay for their booze.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Of course, our fears were unfounded. They were in the dining room the next morning having breakfast. Thank goodness for that... Mind you, if we hadn’t asked to sign for our drinks, would they have got away without paying for theirs? Hmm...</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">All this talk of Drambuie, reminds of an old, quite rude, gag. A group of American ladies were discussing their husbands and exchanging fairly intimate details of their activities. They got on to the subject of nicknames...</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘...And what pet name do you have for your man?’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘I call him Drambuie.’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Drambuie? Ain’t that some kind of fancy liquor?’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">You don’t need a punchline, do you? You’re way ahead of me.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 2nd of April? Of course there were. Here are some that even I know.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jack Buchanan 1891 - Actor, singer, producer and director. Here he is in a clip from the 1953 film, Bandwagon with Fred Astaire and Nanette Fabray, singing </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjW_yvrC0cE" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;">Triplets.</a></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alec Guinness 1914 - Ector, dear leddie. 7th Duke of Chalfont, Ethelred the 8th Earl of Chalfont, Rev. Lord Henry, General Lord Rufus, Lord Ascoyne, Lady Agetha D’Ascoyne, Young Ascoyne and Young Henry in </span><em><span class="tm8">Kind Hearts and Coronets</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Maxwell Reed 1919 - Actor. Captain David Grief in... </span><em><span class="tm8">Captain David Grief</span></em><span class="tm9">. Now more famous for being the first Mr Joan Collins.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">George MacDonald Fraser 1925 - Orfer. Famously took the bully Flashman from Tom Brown’s Schooldays and wrote 12 novels about the character when he became an adult and a British army ‘hero’ of sorts.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kenneth Tynan 1927 - F****** theatre critic.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Roddy Maude-Roxby 1930 - Actor. He used to be in </span><em><span class="tm8">Rowan & Martin’s Laugh In</span></em><span class="tm9">. Must have seemed like a groovy English guy.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Brian Glover aka Leon Uris 1934 - Actor (as Glover) and wrestler (as Uris). Heslop in </span><em><span class="tm8">Porridge</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Denis Tuohy 1937 - Journalist.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Penelope Keith 1940 - Actress. Margo Leadbetter in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Good Life</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mike Hailwood 1940 - Motorcycling World Champ. From 1961 to 1967 he won nine world titles.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Roshan Seth 1942 - Actor. Pandit Nehru in </span><em><span class="tm8">Ghandi</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sue Townsend 1946 - Orfer</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul Gambaccini 1949 - DJ</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Allan Corduner 1950 - Actor. Monty Berman in </span><em><span class="tm8">Fearless</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Linford Christie 1960 - Runny bloke.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Keren Woodward 1961 - A bit of Bananarama. A clip? Yes, of course. Here’s their very first charting single (Number 92) </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKC96veZubI" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;">Aie a Mwana.</a></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Teddy Sheringham 1966 - Footy bloke and singing tree. Unless you watch <i>The Masked Singer</i>, you won't understand that reference so, here he is...</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_gUa9z18Yd6t8vgRj2GeCiSsVF2IqW4_DxTaBe-WqJrFqYQOyDxODA57sMTjUaMOBarsZQQP4nZaJLgVSWHqfQX3G4KIszG7-vBh69s6rE_jxjchc5pOToKX0NEHpr4ta474hv8CRdbqskuiptFGLamsM-heTRWr62p-6dpmTsyBYDsgPEnJhbVe/s715/teddy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #3faaaa; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="427" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_gUa9z18Yd6t8vgRj2GeCiSsVF2IqW4_DxTaBe-WqJrFqYQOyDxODA57sMTjUaMOBarsZQQP4nZaJLgVSWHqfQX3G4KIszG7-vBh69s6rE_jxjchc5pOToKX0NEHpr4ta474hv8CRdbqskuiptFGLamsM-heTRWr62p-6dpmTsyBYDsgPEnJhbVe/w281-h471/teddy.jpg" style="background: transparent; border-radius: 0px; border: 1px solid transparent; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 0px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="281" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">♫ No more I love yews ♫</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Thomson 1969 - Comedian. Niiice.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Yousseph ‘Chico’ Slimani 1971 - Singer. Time for a clip? I should say so. What time is it? It’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_-isKzt4O4" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;">Chico Time.</a></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Simon Farnaby 1972 - Actor, comedian and writer.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andrew Whyment 1981 - Actor. Kirk Sutherland in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jenny Ryan 1982 - Clever lady. Known as The Vixen on </span><em><span class="tm8">The Chase</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now then, what about April 9th? Anyone famous born on that date?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Isambard Kingdom Brunel 1806 - Engineer.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alexander ‘Greek’ Thomson 1817 - Architect.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sebastian Ziani de Ferranti 1864 - Electrician. Not really. He was an electrical engineer and inventor. He co-founded the business that bore his name. Factoid: Livingston F.C. was originally called Ferranti Thistle, a works team founded in 1943. In 1974 it became Meadowbank Thistle before relocating to Livingston in 1995. There you are, educational this is.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Victor Golancz 1893 - Publisher</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Marjorie Rhodes 1897 - Actress. Lucy Fitton in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Family Way</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Hugh Gaitskell 1906 - Politician.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Philip Stainton 1908 - Actor. Seemed to have a friendly copper type of face. Played policemen in 20 per cent of his IMDb credits.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michael Ward 1909 - Jobbing actor. He provided many unnamed characters in various comedy shows of the 60s and 70s. Who can forget Labour Candidate in </span><em><span class="tm8">Rising Damp</span></em><span class="tm9">? Or Vicar in </span><em><span class="tm8">Sykes</span></em><span class="tm9">? I know I can.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Elizabeth Allan 1910 - Actress. Mrs Copperfield in... deep breath... </span><em><span class="tm8">The Personal History, Adventures, Experience & Observation of David Copperfield the Younger</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alan Melville 1910 - </span><span class="tm15">Broadcaster, writer, actor, raconteur, producer, playwright and wit</span><span class="tm9">... In fact, a right old smarty boots.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alex Moulton 1920 - Engineer and inventor... well, more innovator than inventor. Came up with the small-wheeled bicycle that bore his name and the clever suspension systems used on Minis and other BMC cars.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Arthur Tolcher 1922 - Musician. Became famous when he tried to play his harmonica at the end of </span><em><span class="tm8">The Morecambe and Wise Show</span></em><span class="tm9"> only to be told, ‘Not now, Arthur.’</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Gerry Fitt 1926 - Politician, so he was.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Aubrey Woods 1928 - Jobbing actor. Like Michael Ward, many of his roles didn’t have character names; here are just a few: Reporter, A Disciple, Doctor, Photographer, Shop Assistant, Water Board Inspector, Immigration Officer, Inspector, Postman, Foreman, Undertaker and, my favourite, Vegetable Stall Holder. Each and every one totally forgettable.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Monty Sunshine 1928 - Clarinettist. He featured on this million seller for Chris Barber’s Jazz Band, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_vmNrV-4rnY" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;">Petite Fleur.</a></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jack Smethurst 1932 - Actor. Eddie Booth in </span><em><span class="tm8">Love Thy Neighbour</span></em><span class="tm9">, a comedy, it says here, about neighbours, one black, one white, who call each other names. Erm... That's it. Don’t expect it on Dave any time soon.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Valerie Singleton 1937 - TV presenter.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Hannah Gordon 1941 - Actress. Belinda Braithwaite in </span><em><span class="tm8">Joint Account</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alan ‘Wally’ Waller 1944 - Musician. A Pretty Thing. Here he is on </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pk2AqaDP3t0" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;">Grass.</a> That is the song title; he isn’t smoking anything or, indeed, sitting on any greenery.</span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alan Knott 1946 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Les Gray 1946 - Mud slinger... I’m sorry, I’ll type that again... Mud singer. A clip? Why not. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o82AMEvsBpU" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;">L' L' Lucy.</a> [That's not very woke, making fun of a stutter. - Ed.] Not to be confused with It’s My PPParty.</span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Webb 1946 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Iain Duncan Smith 1954 - Politician.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nigel Slater 1958 - Cook.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Perry Benson 1961 - Another jobbing actor who doesn’t always get given a name for his roles (115 IMDb credits and counting). As a kid he was ‘Boy on Stairs’ in </span><em><span class="tm8">Grange Hill</span></em><span class="tm9">. Later, he was Pigeon Vendor in </span><em><span class="tm8">Blackadder</span></em><span class="tm9">. And who can forget his Trading Standards Officer in </span><em><span class="tm8">Alien Autopsy</span></em><span class="tm9">?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sarah Hardcastle 1969 - Swimmy bloke.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tricia Penrose 1970 - Actress. Gina Bellamy in 338 episodes of </span><em><span class="tm8">Heartbeat</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Neve McIntosh 1972 - Actress. Kate Kilmuir in </span><em><span class="tm8">Shetland</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Robbie Fowler 1975 - Footy bloke, la.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rachel Stevens 1978 - Singer. A bit of Sclub 7... I’m sorry, that should read S Club 7. A clip? Indeed. Here is the group’s first number 1, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLQ0biK-ZgA" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;">Bring It All Back.</a> [My last meal, I’m guessing. That really is vomit-inducing. - Ed.]</span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Douglas Ross 1983 - Linesman.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Will Merrick 1993 - Actor. Alo Creevey in </span><em><span class="tm8">Skins</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Alan ‘Grambly’ Grambler,</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was wonderful to hear a track by your band, The Pretty Things. I always felt that history has been unkind to them. Pete Townsend of The Who and Ray Davies of The Kinks are often cited as being the originators of ‘the concept album’ with Tommy (1969) and The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society (1968), but The Pretty Things were there first with S.F. Sorrow in 1967. Tell me, was there ever a song from this groundbreaking album released as a single?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours enquiringly,</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM1U0-mw4s4" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;">D. Fecting-Gray.</a></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did The Grambler’s predictions fare last time? Do you remember that our last bet gave us a two pee profit? Yes? Well, this time, we made a two pee loss. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Accrington Stanley vs Gillingham - Home win</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Accrington 1 Gillingham 2</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Goalmouth action was in short supply in the first half with the best chance in the first minute when Stanley’s Colby Bishop fired straight at goalkeeper Aaron Chapman.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The game burst into life after the interval.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Chapman produced three superb saves to keep out a Bishop overhead kick, deny Korede Adedoyin when he was clean through and spectacularly palm away a Harry Pell header.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Gillingham took the lead after 64 minutes when Vadaine Oliver's effort was tipped away by keeper Liam Isherwood but came to Charlie Kelman at the far post and he headed home.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">It was two in the 73rd minute when a corner was only half-cleared and it was put back in by Dan Phillips with Oliver jumping with Isherwood and heading home his 10th of the season.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The Reds were awarded a penalty in the first minute of stoppage time for a foul on Harvey Rodgers and Bishop stroked the ball home, but the Gills held out for an important win.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">AFC Wimbledon vs Cambridge Utd - Home win</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Wimbledon 0 Cambridge 1</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">After a poor opening 35 minutes, the home side almost found the breakthrough as Anthony Hartigan's dinked cross found the head of Derick Osei Yaw but his effort was just wide.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Dons defender Paul Osew nearly caught out his own goalkeeper Nik Tzanev with a risky chest back shortly afterwards.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Within a minute of the restart, Adam May collected the ball outside the box and bent a glorious curling strike past Tzanev.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">AFC Wimbledon's best chance fell to Sam Cosgrove on the hour but his turn and shot was deflected over.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Cambridge nearly doubled their advantage through Sam Smith, but he was denied by a brilliant improvised clearance from Ben Heneghan.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Despite a late Wimbledon push, Cambridge held on.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Doncaster vs Charlton - Away win</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Doncaster 0 Charlton 1</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Charlton recovered from Conor Washington's penalty miss to record a third successive victory with a 1-0 win over relegation-threatened Doncaster.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Conor Washington saw his first-half penalty saved by Rovers goalkeeper Jonathan Mitchell, only for Jayden Stockley to net the only goal of the game to secure the points for the Addicks.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">They dominated the afternoon in attacking terms and were gifted an opportunity to go ahead in the 14th minute when Kyle Knoyle mistimed a challenge on Corey Blackett-Taylor inside the box, only for Mitchell to keep out Washington's penalty.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Chances kept coming for the visitors, with Mitchell denying Washington and Stockley in quick succession.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Rovers on the other hand found opportunities at a premium, with a blocked volley from Ben Jackson and a Matt Smith strike their only efforts of note.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Charlton took the lead after 67 minutes when Blackett-Taylor cut the ball back from the byline and Stockley found the far bottom corner.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Washington saw a one-on-one effort saved by Mitchell while Stockley rattled the crossbar with his follow-up as Charlton looked the more likely to add to the score.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Ipswich vs Plymouth - Home win</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Ipswich 1 Plymouth 0</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Sam Morsy's goal from inside the six-yard box was enough to earn Ipswich a 1-0 win over Plymouth.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">A snapshot by Sone Aluko fizzed into the side-netting and Wes Burns' driven cross nearly fell at the feet of an Ipswich forward while a pass into the Argyle penalty area by Aluko almost found Morsy.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Another whipped cross from the right by Janoi Donacien just evaded a Town player and Burns' header was straight at Argyle goalkeeper Michael Cooper.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">At the other end Town keeper Christian Walton displayed his dribbling skills to outsmart Argyle striker Ryan Hardie but his pass almost fell to a Plymouth player.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Town pressure eventually told in the 37th minute when Morsy netted, following a pinpoint cross from James Norwood.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">In the closing minutes Burns should have sewn the game up for Ipswich but his fierce shot went just wide.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Shrewsbury vs Lincoln - Home win</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Shrewsbury 1 Lincoln 0</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Prolific Daniel Udoh scored a dramatic 84th-minute winner against Lincoln.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The Shrews attacker reacted quickly to a loose ball on the edge of the box and rifled a shot home to decide this League One contest.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Earlier in the match, Udoh had been involved in a collision with Lincoln defender Adam Jackson, who was forced off on a stretcher after just 24 minutes.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Jordan Wright made the first save of the afternoon six minutes before half-time, tipping Josh Vela's powerful strike from the edge of the box over the bar.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The Imps went close in first-half stoppage time as Ted Bishop's curling 25-yard drive sailed narrowly wide.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">On the hour mark, Wright kept Lincoln in the match with a good stop to deny Matthew Pennington but the hosts found their way through in the end.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Ho hum. Let’s see if The Grambler can improve on matters this week. What has he/she/it predicted?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Blackburn vs Blackpool - Home win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Bristol City vs Peterborough - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Millwall vs Barnsley - Home win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Nottingham Forest vs Birmingham - Home win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">West Brom vs Stoke - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span class="tm12"></span></strong><span class="tm9">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune of a whopping</span></span></p><h1 style="margin: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center;"><span class="tm18" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><i><u>£9.52</u></i></span></span></h1><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">That’s more our style. Totally unwhopping.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p><p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm19"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p><p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p><p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p><p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Sauchie, Clackmannanshire in 1955. I began my senior career as a defender at Partick Thistle in 1973. In 1977 I moved to Liverpool making 434 appearances before my retirement in 1991. I had two spells as club captain. I was capped 26 times for Scotland. After retiring from the game, I became famous as a football pundit for the BBC.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Alan Hansen</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which player has made the most Premier League appearances for Everton?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Neville Southall (751)</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Scot has won the most Premier League winners medals?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Darren Fletcher (5)</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays at Recreation Park?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Alloa Athletic</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. How about a daft one? How many teams in the English and Scottish senior leagues have Albion in their name?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Five (Brighton and Hove Albion, West Bromwich Albion, Burton Albion, Stirling Albion and Albion Rovers)</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How about five for this week? Here goes...</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Stoke Newington in 1958 but moved to Ireland at te age of four. A defender, I began my senior career at Arsenal in 1975 and remained with the club for 18 years making 722 appearances, a club record. I ended my playing days at Leeds United who I later managed. I was capped 68 times for Republic of Ireland.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Who is the only Swiss player have won more than one Champions League Medal?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which Scottish team has the nickname ‘The Maroon Machine’?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays at Gander Green Lane?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. How many clubs with ‘port’ in their name have played in the English and Scottish Leagues?</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of </span><u><a href="http://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigns-policy/latest-campaigns/never-too-young-campaign" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;"><span class="tm9">http://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigns-policy/latest-campaigns/never-too-young-campaign</span></a><span class="tm10"></span></u></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><u><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></u></p><p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s).</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a>. <span class="tm9">The amount raised is a little out of date, though. Check the Justgiving page link given at the beginning of this blog to see the current figure.</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm15">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Mr S. Farnaby. Who? Simon Farnaby who celebrated his birthday last week, but is in the birthday honours because this week’s edition... [I’m sure they can work it out. - Ed.] So, yes, Simon Farnaby. He is a comedian, writer and actor. He appeared in </span><em><span class="tm22">The Mighty Boosh</span></em><span class="tm15">, you may recall. Since then, he has been part of what has become known as the </span><em><span class="tm22">Horrible Histories</span></em><span class="tm15"> troupe. Horrible Histories books were written by Terry Deary, Peter Hepplewhite and Neil Tonge in the 1990s as a way to make children enjoy history by concentrating on the odder (and usually ruder) aspects of our ancestors. In 2009, the concept was made into a sketch show for kids featuring a group of young actors, the ‘troupe’. The group went on to make </span><em><span class="tm22">Yonderland</span></em><span class="tm15"> which was less child-focused. Recently, they have been involved in making the Beeb comedy </span><em><span class="tm22">Ghosts</span></em><span class="tm15">. I thought a small sample of his output would make a nice ending this week and selected a short compilation of items featuring Farnaby as The (not so) Grim Reaper in a regular feature of the Horrible Histories shows, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKAxK_Tb_hk" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;">Stupid Deaths</a>. [Is that meant to be for children? - Ed.] Yes. [It’s too damn good for them. - Ed.]</span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm9">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com/" style="color: #3faaaa; text-decoration-line: none;"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling.</span></span></p></div><div class="post-footer" style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.6; margin: 1.5em 0px 0px;"><div class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-1"><div class="post-share-buttons goog-inline-block" style="display: inline-block; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.5em; position: relative; vertical-align: middle;"><a class="goog-inline-block share-button sb-email" href="https://www.blogger.com/share-post.g?blogID=2395690025215660503&postID=3770415719601641755&target=email" style="background: url("/img/share_buttons_20_3.png") 0px 0px no-repeat !important; color: #3faaaa; display: inline-block; height: 20px; margin-left: -1px; overflow: hidden; position: relative; text-decoration-line: none; width: 20px;" target="_blank" title="Email This"><span class="share-button-link-text" style="display: block; text-indent: -9999px;">Email This</span></a><a class="goog-inline-block share-button sb-blog" href="https://www.blogger.com/share-post.g?blogID=2395690025215660503&postID=3770415719601641755&target=blog" style="background: url("/img/share_buttons_20_3.png") -20px 0px no-repeat !important; color: #3faaaa; display: inline-block; height: 20px; margin-left: -1px; overflow: hidden; position: relative; text-decoration-line: none; width: 20px;" target="_blank" title="BlogThis!"><span class="share-button-link-text" style="display: block; text-indent: -9999px;">BlogThis!</span></a><a class="goog-inline-block share-button sb-twitter" href="https://www.blogger.com/share-post.g?blogID=2395690025215660503&postID=3770415719601641755&target=twitter" style="background: url("/img/share_buttons_20_3.png") -40px 0px no-repeat !important; color: #3faaaa; display: inline-block; height: 20px; margin-left: -1px; overflow: hidden; position: relative; text-decoration-line: none; width: 20px;" target="_blank" title="Share to Twitter"><span class="share-button-link-text" style="display: block; text-indent: -9999px;">Share to Twitter</span></a><a class="goog-inline-block share-button sb-facebook" href="https://www.blogger.com/share-post.g?blogID=2395690025215660503&postID=3770415719601641755&target=facebook" style="background: url("/img/share_buttons_20_3.png") -60px 0px no-repeat !important; color: #3faaaa; display: inline-block; height: 20px; margin-left: -1px; overflow: hidden; position: relative; text-decoration-line: none; width: 20px;" target="_blank" title="Share to Facebook"><span class="share-button-link-text" style="display: block; text-indent: -9999px;">Share to Facebook</span></a><a class="goog-inline-block share-button sb-pinterest" href="https://www.blogger.com/share-post.g?blogID=2395690025215660503&postID=3770415719601641755&target=pinterest" style="background: url("/img/share_buttons_20_3.png") -100px 0px no-repeat !important; color: #3faaaa; display: inline-block; height: 20px; margin-left: -1px; overflow: hidden; position: relative; text-decoration-line: none; width: 20px;" target="_blank" title="Share to Pinterest"><span class="share-button-link-text" style="display: block; text-indent: -9999px;">Share to Pinterest</span></a></div></div></div>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-14855808688838201652023-07-01T11:50:00.002+01:002023-07-01T13:23:01.929+01:00Post 481 - A shrinking gramble<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Has the well-known poet and national treasure, Pam Ayres ever written a witty ode relating to snooker? I’m sure she could concoct something really amusing, with lots of rude comments
about pockets, rests and balls and stuff.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">R. O’Sullivan.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Have you noticed? Everything seems to be getting smaller these days. Well not everything; my earlobes seem to be getting bigger. Why does that happen as you get older? Answers on
a postcard please.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Cars seem to buck... I said buck... the trend. They get bigger with each generation it seems. Apparently the current VW Polo is bigger than the mark three VW Golf. [Really? How
interesting. Yawn. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Any road up, as I was saying, most things seem to be getting smaller and I really can't understand why it is happening. We all know that prices are rising and are accepting
of the fact, so why do manufacturers believe that they must reduce the amount they sell you as well?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How do you mean, I hear you ask. Well, as I have mentioned before in this august publication, I do enjoy a cup of coffee. Whenever I buy a pack, I put it into my pottery Barstucks
coffee jar... It was a gift, honest... You wouldn't catch me buying any of their overpriced tat. Where is this leading, I hear you ask. Well, it used to be the case that a pack of Aldo's finest didn't quite fit
in the jar; now, a whole pack goes in with space to spare. It wouldn't be so bad if the cost remained the same, but it has gone up as the size has gone down.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And so it is with many products. Nowhere is it worse than in the confectionery business. Since Cad... Badcurry's (Do you see what I did there?) was taken over by the U.S. company
Crafty (There. I've done it again.) all sorts of liberties have been taken. The bars of chocolate have been reshaped to look as if they are a similar size but are obviously considerably lighter. What a con. Similarly,
the same company has messed about with a certain prism shaped chocolate bar and removed every second 'peak'. Thus, the chocolate bar wrapper is the same size but there is much less chocolate within it. What a cheat.
Mind you, it's such horrible stuff, it's probably a good idea to give you less.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nest... Cuddlee (Did it again.) bought a company called Squaretree (And once again. Don't want any lawyers knocking on my door.) some years back and proceeded to mess about
with the products. I have mentioned this before in a previous blog... What I didn't mention at that time was that part of the deal was to acquire a subsidiary of Squaretree called Gerry's (And again.). Thankfully,
they never meddled with the recipe and a Gerry's chocolate ora... citrus fruit tastes the same as it ever did. And it looks the same. From the outside. Prior to the takeover a chocolate citrus fruit was a three inch diameter
sphere of solid chocolate. No gaps at all. Absolutely no room for any air within its spherical form. Now, though, each segment is aerofoil shaped. [Ooh, there's fancy. - Ed.] Each piece has a huge groove on one side. Thus,
although, outwardly, it resembles the original chocolate ora... citrus thingy, there is now about 25% less chocolate. What a swizz.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And don't get me started on those half empty boxes of Malty teaser things.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let's move away from sweet things and onto soap. A bit of a leap there, I hear you say. Indeed. But it was a bar of soap that prompted me to write this week's article. How
so, I hear you ask. It occurred to me that years ago, bars of soap came in two sizes - a small bar which would be placed for hand washing on the bathroom sink and a huge bar which was for use in the bath. Whatever happened
to bath soap? Now, you only seem to be able to buy small bars. Why is that?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I'll tell you why. Big bars of soap last too long; little bars need replacing more often. Smart, these soap manufacturers.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Cleverer still, they have realised that a larger surface area means that a bar gets used up even more quickly. So, like the choccy makers, soap manufacturers have come up with
all sorts of shapes to make you replace soap more often. A rectangular block is no longer acceptable. Oh no. Ends get rounded off; flat surfaces get hollowed out. The bar may look similar to what came before, but these subtle
changes to increase the surface area mean that we, Mr and Mrs soap buyer [That's an unusual name. - Ed.] have to buy soap more often. Ker-ching! More profits for Mr and Mrs soap seller.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, I use a brand called Wrig... Left (Phew. Just remembered.) and the reason I like using this particular brand, apart from the terrific smell coa... cola rat (Hope you can work
that out), is that, over the years, its shape has not changed. Not even a little bit.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Today I opened a new pack and... you know what's coming... It... is... SMALLER! I could not believe it. I said to Mrs G, 'I can't believe it.' How could they!
How dare they!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Outwardly, the packaging is identical but, when you remove the bar of soap, what used to a solid rectangular block with each side lining up perfectly, now has one of the larger
surfaces hollowed out. In fact, when you look at it side on, it’s almost... an aerofoil. Are theses soap manufacturers copying Gerry’s? Hmm? Discuss.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 1st of July? Of course there were. Here are some that even I have
heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Charles Laughton 1899 - Ector dear leddie. One of the great thespians... They can’t touch you for it. Played a few cracking roles, but Henry Hobson in </span><em><span class="tm8">Hobson’s Choice</span></em><span class="tm9"> was my favourite.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Amy Johnson 1903 - Aviatrix (as female aviators were known). Britain’s answer to Amelia Earhart. So famous, she even had a song written in her honour. I know I’ve given
you a link before, but I’m going to do it again. Here’s Arthur Rosebery and his Dance Band with </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzb1XpEuWpY">Amy (Wonderful Amy)</a>.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ndLAWhzxBOhJwQXGuCsdfJKDXN7TjZrC0zH57UcFyHF0X7e1s85BY08MN8EDHgSATowyY23GMjA07g74HvwIjNt0vkDHxubsNb9NqQJLgWG4mIdW4zHwlYW8OBwyCLqS2gI2zAmF1HVd8jUMR02BPJoe_jN58vVQ1U2XNb6VeDPqmUmZ7X2pfyGmnn4/s518/amy%202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="518" data-original-width="408" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ndLAWhzxBOhJwQXGuCsdfJKDXN7TjZrC0zH57UcFyHF0X7e1s85BY08MN8EDHgSATowyY23GMjA07g74HvwIjNt0vkDHxubsNb9NqQJLgWG4mIdW4zHwlYW8OBwyCLqS2gI2zAmF1HVd8jUMR02BPJoe_jN58vVQ1U2XNb6VeDPqmUmZ7X2pfyGmnn4/s320/amy%202.jpg" width="252" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Who are you calling flighty?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Polwhele Blatchley 1913 - Who, I hear you ask. A name known only to petrolheads like yours truly. He was the chief stylist of Rolls-Royce cars from 1943 to 1969.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dorian Williams 1914 - Broadcaster. The voice of show-jumping on the Beeb Beeb Ceeb.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Olivia de Havilland 1916 - Ectress. Catherine Sloper in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Heiress</span></em><span class="tm9">. She died in 2020 aged 104.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Wilson Humphries 1928 - Fitba guy. Ex-Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Donny MacLeod 1932 - TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paddy Jones 1934 - The ‘Oldest Acrobatic Salsa Dancer’ according Guinness World Records.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jean Marsh 1934 - Actress. Co-created and starred in </span><em><span class="tm8">Upstairs, Downstairs</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Prowse 1935 - Actor. Played Darth Vader in Star Wars.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Susan Maughan 1938 - Singer. Had a few singles released in the early sixties, but only this one troubled the top 40, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6CUc3xr4-Q">Bobby's Girl.</a> Nice bit of lip synching there, Suze.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Craig Brown 1940 - Fitba guy. Used to manage Motherwell. Sadly, he died only this week.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Robert ‘Doc’ Cox aka Ivor Biggun 1946 - Musician and TV journalist. Produced a few double-entendre laden songs as Ivor Biggun. Would you like a clip? Tough, there might
be children reading this.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Farnham 1949 - Singer. Had a huge world-wide hit with Your The Voice, but he was a star in his native Australia long before that. This was a number one down under, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZeRmpvCjEw">Sadie (The Cleaning Lady).</a> Stick with it, he sings In My Room after it; a far better toon.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ben Roberts 1950 - Actor, isn’t it. Ch. Insp. Derek Conway in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Bill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">George Adams 1950 - Fitba guy. Worked at Motherwell in youth development. Dad of former Motherwell star Derek.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Trevor Eve 1951 - Actor. Peter Boyd in </span><em><span class="tm8">Waking the Dead</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Alan Sunderland 1953 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lesley Vickerage 1961 - Actress. Jenny Dean in </span><em><span class="tm8">Between the Lines</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Diana, Princess of Wales 1961 - The well-known people’s princess.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ivan Kaye 1961 - Actor. Bryan in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Green Green Grass</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Karl Fogarty 1965 - Motor bike racey bloke and King of the Jungle.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Franny Griffiths 1966 - Musician. Keyboard player with Space. Rarely tackled vocals, but here’s an exception, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXBUe1D0-_k">I'm Unlike a Lifeform You've Ever Met.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ricky Champ 1980 - Actor. Stuart Highway in </span><em><span class="tm8">Eastenders</span></em><span class="tm9">, you slaaag.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Fern Brady 1986 - Comedienne.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mitch Hewer 1989 - Actor. Maxxie in </span><em><span class="tm8">Skins</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Braldokes fare? Let’s head east, I said. Let’s see what happens, I said. What happened? We lost. Rubbish or what. [Definitely the former.
- Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s try again. What games are available this weekend? Shall we try Argentina again?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">All games take place on the 1st of July at various times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Atletico Tacuman vs Union - Home win - 21/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Velez Sarsfield vs Arsenal Sarandi - Home win - 7/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Barracas Central vs River Plate - Away win - 4/9</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">San Lorenzo de Almagro vs Rosario Central - Home win - 10/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Estudiantes de la Plata vs CA Central Cordoba SE - Home - 8/15</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm18"></span><em><u><span class="tm19">£8.88</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Who put that 4/9 in there?! No wonder it’s so low.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in 1992 in Winchester, England. A forward, I began my senior career at Bournemouth before moves to Burnley, Liverpool, Southampton, Aston Villa and my present club West Ham.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Danny Ings</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. What club is managed by Derek Adams?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Morecambe</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which is the oldest club currently playing in the English Football League?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Stoke City 1863. However, Notts County claim they came into existence in 1862, but 1864 is suggested by other sources. Crystal Palace also lay claim to the title having been
first formed in 1861, but they ceased playing competitively in 1876, before starting up again in 1905. As Barry Norman used to say, you pays your money and takes your choice.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who is the tallest player to play in the English Football League?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Answer - </span><span class="tm15">Lucas Bergström at 2.05m (6 feet 9 inches in old money)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club plays its home games at Brisbane Road?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Leyton Orient</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How about five for this week? Yes, why not.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Porto Alegre, Brazil in 1980. I began my senior career at Grêmio before moves to Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, AC Milan, Flamengo, Atlético Mineiro, Querétaro
and Fluminense. I was capped for Brazil 97 times. I am the only player ever to have won a World Cup, a Champions League, a Copa America, a Confederations Cup, a Copa Libertadores and a Ballon d’Or. I am known by the
nickname O Bruxo (The Wizard).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Which current Premier League player has scored the most penalties?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which two clubs have spent the longest time in the second tier of English football (41 seasons) without ever reaching the top league?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. The car manufacturer Lotus is associated with which club?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which English club currently plays its home games at the Keepmoat Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is a little out of date; and with the money from Tea for Stewart, it is now sitting at...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">£71,281</span></u></i></b></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm15">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Mr. </span><span class="tm15">D. Prowse who provides us with this week’s finishing link. Prowse was a big fella; 6 feet 6 inches (almost
two metres for those of you who only use metric measurement) and from an early age he took up bodybuilding and weightlifting. His height and physique no doubt helped him land the (non-speaking) part of Darth Vader (or as
my old man insisted on calling him, Daft Ada). He didn’t know it was a non-speaking part, it was just that his soft West Country accent didn’t fit in with the ultimate baddie. He revelled in the fame that playing
the part gave him even though he had few other acting credits. One other part he is remembered for is The Green Cross Code Man. Sorry pardon excuse me? The Green Cross Code Man was a character dreamed up to teach children
about road safety. Even here, his own voice was deemed to be too bucolic, so the advert was dubbed </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRUBMBi_lp4">like so.</a> <span class="tm9">However, somebod</span><span class="tm9">y must have thought that all this dubbing might be giving him a bit of a complex so, in another Green Cross Code ad, he used </span><span class="tm9"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxhZQhTB7Vg">his own voice.</a>* That’s better. Luke Oi aaahm your faaahther.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> * I know I've used this ending before (six years ago, to be precise) and I make no apologies for using it again. I like the story. So there. (Makes raspberry noise.) [No need for that. Just because you can't think of a better ending. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm9">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-4434406944393467172023-06-24T11:17:00.002+01:002023-06-26T15:48:23.657+01:00Post 480 - A Maserati Grambli<p> </p><p class="Normal tm7"><em><span class="tm8"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8"></span><span class="tm9">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see. </span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Whilst on holiday recently, I spotted a man who was a dead ringer for Everton manager Sean Dyche. He even had a little ginger beard. Have any of your readers had a similar experience?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Martin Pratt.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">[Well readers, have any of you ever spotted a scary-looking man with a ginger beard while on holiday? - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">We begin this week’s story time with a rather special report. For the first time since 2019, Mrs G has been able to run her ‘Tea for Stewart’ afternoon tea.
Yay!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Now, I could give you a run down of how the day went, but if you simply read </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com/2019/07/week-45-grambling-at-this-years-tea-for.html"><span class="tm9">http://www.thegrambler.com/2019/07/week-45-grambling-at-this-years-tea-for.html</span></a><span> from four years ago, you will get the general idea.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">The only notable difference is that supermarkets and businesses didn’t provide the raw materials* as had happened in previous years. Shame. That didn’t stop us though;
we have some very generous friends who were happy to help out. Thanks to everyone involved.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh, I nearly forgot, the total raised for the Bobby Moore Fund has exceeded the figure from previous similar events. How much was raised?</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><u><i>£2577</i></u></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brilliant or what.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">* I should point out that a local businessman did still provide prosecco for the day, so our thanks go to him.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, story time proper...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you like cruising? I mean the holiday on a big boat type of cruising, not the other kind which involves a bit of kerb-crawling. What you do in your spare time is your own affair.
Whatever floats your boat... which brings me back to this week’s topic, cruises.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Mrs G and I love to go on a cruise: a week or two of sheer luxury. You wake in the morning, shower and then head to a restaurant for a relaxing breakfast. If you are spending the
day at sea, you can relax at a presentation, or sunbathe, head to a coffee bar, whatever takes your fancy. If you are stopping at a port, it is nice to head off on a tour of wherever you are, before heading back to the ship
for more unadulterated pampering.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Are there any downsides to life on board, I hear you ask. Yes there are, I answer, but they have nothing to do with the holiday package provided on board. Any whim you have will
be pandered to. No, any negatives have nothing to do the ship or the crew, they are more to do with fellow passengers. However do you mean, you may ask. Pull up a chair and I’ll tell ee...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes, mealtimes in the ship’s restaurants can get a little busy so it may be necessary to share a table with other people; usually four others. It can make for an interesting
meal, listening to other people’s stories. This isn’t always the case, however.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">On one occasion, Mrs G and I were seated at a table with some American couples. I had no problem with that, I am not racist against Americans. Any road up, we were all chatting
away, but there was one elderly gentleman dressed in a tweed suit with colour coodinated bow-tie, who barely spoke during the general chit-chat about families and where everyone was from... </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Scaddish? Oh, I thought you were Irish.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">... Meanwhile bow-tie man was silent. His wife told us he had been a university lecturer on history. How interesting, we thought.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Finally, bow-tie man spoke...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Tell me, what do you know about the Hundred Years War?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Nothing.’ I answered with complete honesty.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">This was the response he was looking for. It gave him a launchpad for possibly the only subject he could talk about.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Well, let me tell you...’, he began and so commenced a mind-numbingly boring lecture on a topic nobody at the table was remotely interested in hearing about.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I felt Mrs G’s size five kick me in the ankle and she mouthed the words ‘Don’t order a dessert.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">We, and the other couples at the table, suddenly had an urge to be somewhere, anywhere, else and left. I’m sure his wife would have done the same if she had been able.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Meanwhile, bow-tie man was still rambling on to no-one in particular abouut the history of the Hundred Year War.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Most people on board are nice to be around and are wonderful company. I hope Mrs G and I are perceived as the same. However, bow-tie man is not alone. There are always bores
on board.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Once I recall sitting in one of the ship’s many bars and, because a theatre show was about to begin, the bar was somewhat full and we found ourselves sitting next to an English
lady and her husband. Not that I’m racist about English people, you understand. He didn’t speak, mainly because he would have found it hard to get a word in.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Within minutes, this lady had told us how much her, now retired, husband had earned, how much his pension was worth, how much her pension was worth, how big their house was and
how much it was worth, how much they had tied up in shares, how much their clever son in Hong Kong earned, which private school the grandchildren went to... RIIINNNNG! Thank goodness, the bell for the evening’s theatre
production to start. We made our excuses and left. If we saw her again after that encounter, we simply said a polite hello and moved on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">My favourite mealtime moment was a time when we were seated with another two couples for our evening meal. I was seated next to a chap who had the fascinating hobby of building
traction engines and cars. I would happily have chatted with him, a fellow petrol-head, all night. However, the other guy at the table was very much the ‘conversation controller’ and he wanted to talk about his
favourite topic... himself. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Of course, since I retired we’ve been on lots of wonderful holidays, haven’t we dear?’ His wife smiled the weak smile of someone who knew what was to follow.
‘Cambodia was nice. Blah blah blah. And Peru. Blah de blah blah. Venezuela was nice, too. Blah blah blahditty blah. And Vietnam. Blah blah blah blah. But I think our favourite place was Bali...’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘Oh, that was our favourite, as well.’ I said.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">He looked disappointed, as if I’d stolen his thunder, but he gamely switched the conversation...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘What ‘wheels’ have you got?’ Notice that? Wheels. Not car. Just wheels. What a tw*t. He didn’t wait for an answer, but, after listening to him
reeling off all the expensive brands he had owned, I finally got the chance to actually say what my ‘wheels’ were. When I said that I drove a big Mini, his sneer was quite palpable...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘I’ve now moved on to a Maserati (which he pronounced Mezzerarti) Ghibli (which he pronounced Jibbly... Why does this guy remind me of Del Boy Trotter?) Nought to 60
in 5.7 seconds. 158 em pee aitch. Well worth ninety grand.’ He turned to traction engine man, ‘You’re not saying much, what do you drive?’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘An AC Cobra,’ he said.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘That’ll be a replica, I should imagine.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">‘No. It’s original. I restored it myself.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">You could see self-obsessed man almost deflate as he realised his ace had just been trumped. Like me, he realised that good Cobras are now being auctioned for seven-figure sums.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">He muttered a few departing pleasantries and left the restaurant, with his wife following obediently.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Did I say these were the downsides of cruising? I take that back. Often, it’s moments like these that make a great holiday even better. Mezzerarti Jibbly indeed. What
a tw*t!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 17th of June? Of course there were. Here are some that even I have
heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Edward I 1239 - The well-known king.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Wesley 1703 - Founder of Methodist movement. [That’s what Marlon Brando practised, wasn’t it? - Ed.] No.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Kay 1709 - Inventor of the flying shuttle [Between Gatwick and Manchester? - Ed.] No.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Diana Mitford 1910 - Poash wummin.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sam Costa 1910 - Singer, actor and, later, a DJ. [Didn’t he invent takeaway coffee? - Ed.] No.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWJQTXT_8NTAdcvleGADDlBYoioCk7KkZ7-e2uCiuw5g9ZGUBQmoHZzJvKR8uvFhiwhsLRvvBMnFC0k1vptNKtpoG8zYtQ7EU1MXqeB_q8nWWJXuqd3ejusCvh1XTYyE5rDBwtMaiKFqtYrx7qgSAM6PmR4KV5NNGKfcvyD-notWCMKKMgTyoaGKWVo8Y/s284/sam%20costa.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="284" data-original-width="193" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWJQTXT_8NTAdcvleGADDlBYoioCk7KkZ7-e2uCiuw5g9ZGUBQmoHZzJvKR8uvFhiwhsLRvvBMnFC0k1vptNKtpoG8zYtQ7EU1MXqeB_q8nWWJXuqd3ejusCvh1XTYyE5rDBwtMaiKFqtYrx7qgSAM6PmR4KV5NNGKfcvyD-notWCMKKMgTyoaGKWVo8Y/w264-h388/sam%20costa.jpg" width="264" /></a></span></div><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sam Costa: ‘Good morning, Sir, was there something?’ That was his catchphrase. Oh how we laughed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">James Cameron 1911 - Journo and broadcaster. [Didn’t he make that film about the big boat? - Ed.] No.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Duncan Lamont 1918 - Actor. Station Sgt. Cooper in </span><em><span class="tm8">Dixon of Dock Green</span></em><span class="tm9">. Mind how you go.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Beryl Reid 1919 - Actress.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Amis 1922 - Broadcaster.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ken Loach 1936 - Film director. </span><em><span class="tm8">Kes</span></em><span class="tm9">, that was one of his.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Spedding 1944 - Musician. Although he was a sought-after session musician, he only had the one hit, Motor Biking, but you don’t want to hear that. [Don’t we?
- Ed.] No. So here’s a bit of </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqpJj2H5Tq0">Guitar Jamboree.</a> Yee hah!</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ken Livingstone 1945 - Politician.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Paul Young 1947 - Singer. Worked with Mike and his Mechanics, but had a former career with Sad Cafe. Here’s their hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-TakXYf6sk">Every Day Hurts.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Guy Evans 1947 - Drummy bloke with Van der Graaf Generator. A clip? Indeed. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxWoYmb3MKw">Wondering.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Cussick 1954 - Singer and songwriter. Here’s a very early hit from his days as a member of Linda and the Funky Boys, [I’m guessing he was a funky boy. - Ed.] </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zrDYcwJfHE">Shame Shame Shame.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nicky Clarke 1958 - Barber.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">David Longdon 1965 - Musician and vocalist with Big Big Train. Here’s a little toon he wrote, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-p-FMZimFiM">Uncle Jack.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Arthur Darvill 1982 - Actor. Rev. Paul Coates in </span><em><span class="tm8">Broadchurch</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lee Ryan 1983 - Singer and actor. A bit of Blue. Have a clip. Here’s their first hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALlMIF6vG8s">All Rise.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jordan Henderson 1990 - Foo’y blurk laik.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Shura 1991 - Musician. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ4uBdmnKds">What's It Gonna Be.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now then, what about the 24th of June?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian ‘Jonners’ Johnston 1912 - Broadcaster.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Fred Hoyle 1915 - Astronomer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Anthony Wager 1932 - Actor. Young Pip in </span><em><span class="tm8">Great Expectations</span></em><span class="tm9"> (1946).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Arthur Brown 1942 - Musician. Have a clip. [Hopefully something other than Fire. - Ed.] Here is Arthur Brown’s Kingdom Come with </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HACMLSsbk0">Spirit of Joy.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Julian Holloway 1944 - Actor. Son of Stanley. Did you know he was in </span><em><span class="tm8">A Hard Day’s Night</span></em><span class="tm9">? No? Well, he was. 146 credits on IMBd.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jeff Beck 1944 - Musician. Let’s have a clip. [Please, not Hi Ho Silver Lining. - Ed.] Here is his cover of Luxembourg’s entry for the 1967 Eurovision Song Contest,
</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2bFU1FfFmw">L'amour est Bleu.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Chris Wood 1944 - Musician. Founding member of Traffic. A clip? [Not Hole in my Shoe, I beg of you. - Ed.] No, here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtldbDwAk9E">Medicated Goo.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John ‘Charlie’ Whitney 1944 - Musician. Did you know he was in the first band I ever saw live. Yep. Family, Green’s Playhouse, 1971 [Blimey, you’re old.
- Ed.] Have a clip. Here’s the rather pleasant </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpTOh9T5UtU">Anyway.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Colin Blunstone 1945 - Singer and songwriter. He was a Zombie, you know. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks1agImDmAk">Time of the Season.</a> They were all in their mid-seventies in that live rendition. Not a bad performance, considering.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Clarissa Dickson Wright 1947 - TV personality. Half of </span><em><span class="tm8">Two Fat Ladies</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mick Fleetwood 1947 - Drummer with Fleetwood Mac. A clip? [Not Albatross again, surely. - Ed.] No, not Albatross and don’t call me Shirley. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRu7Pt42x6Y">Black Magic Woman.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Illsley 1949 - Musician. Bassist with Dire Straits throughout the band’s existence. Have a clip. [Not Money for Nothing. - Ed.] Yep. Just to see how how rubbish CGI
was 40 years ago. Once again, please enjoy the dodgy video made for </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTP2RUD_cL0">Money for Nothing.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Simon Rouse 1951 - Actor. D.C.I. Meadows in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Bill</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Terence Wilson aka Astro 1957 - Musician. A member of UB40 from 1979 to 2013. Have a clip. Here’s a song written and performed by Astro, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HxY1hZyNcpM">Rat in Mi Kitchen.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Keith Graham 1958 - Who? Better known as Levi Roots, the man behind Reggae Reggae Sauce.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andy McCluskey 1959 - Musician. Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark front man. A clip? [Not Enola Gay. - Ed.] No, not Enola Gay. Here is their best performing single which reached
number three in the UK charts, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMST3H69-Os">Sailing on the Seven Seas.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Curt Smith 1961 - Musician. Half of Tears for Fears. A clip? I should think so. My favourite 80s band. Here’s a track from 2021's The Tipping Point, the band’s last studio album, called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O78aZm3cMm8">Stay.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Richard Lumsden 1965 - Actor. His first TV role was as Foggy in </span><em><span class="tm8">First of the Summer Wine</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David May 1970 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Charles Venn 1973 - Actor. Jacob Masters in </span><em><span class="tm8">Casualty</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Zeb Soanes 1976 - Radio and TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Kevin Nolan 1982 - Fyooty bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">James McPake 1984 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stuart Broad 1986 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Micah Richards 1988 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Grambly McCluskey,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I have always enjoyed listening to your band, Orgasmic... Hang on. Not orgasmic; that’s not right... I’ve always enjoyed listening to your band, O.M.D. Sailing on
the Seven Seas is noted as being your best-performing song, but I thought there was another which also reached number 3, although I can’t remember which. Can you help?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours Inquiringly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDIYOiQUi2s">Sue Veneer.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Braldokes fare? We won... sort of. 58 pees back from our £2.20 bet. Not so good. Where shall we head this week for our bets? Last time, we headed
west to Argentina; let’s head east this week... to Japan. Why not.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">All games take place on the 24th of June.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Consadole Sapporo vs Cerezo Osaka - Home win - 20/21</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Kashiwa Reysol vs Albirex Niigata - Home win - 5/4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Kyoto Sanga vs Yokohama F.C. - Home win - 5/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Sanfrecce Hiroshima vs Yokohama F Marinos - Home win - 21/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Shonan Bellmare vs Sagan Tosu - Home win - 19/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm18"></span><em><u><span class="tm19">£14.48</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh no. That’s far too whopping.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Northampton in 1996. A striker, I began my senior career at Northampton Town before moving to Newcastle United. During three years at St. James’ Park, I only played
twice for Newcastle but was loaned out to Barnsley, Shrewsbury Town, Scunthorpe United and Wigan Athletic. I then moved to Peterborough United before transferring to my present club, Brentford. Unfortunately, due to some
breaches of gambling laws, I am currently serving an eight month suspension.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Ivan Toney</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Talking of bad boys, which team is managed by Duncan Ferguson?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Forest Green Rovers</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who, at 15 years 181 days, was the youngest ever player in the top flight of English football? </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Ethan Nwaneri</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at Bescot Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Walsall (It is also known the Poundland Bescot Stadium)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. What was the original name of Dundee United?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Dundee Hibernian</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now then, what about five for this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in 1992 in Winchester, England. A forward, I began my senior career at Bournemouth before moves to Burnley, Liverpool, Southampton, Aston Villa and my present club West Ham.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. What club is managed by Derek Adams?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Which is the oldest club currently playing in the English Football League?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who is the tallest player to play in the English Football League?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club plays its home games at Brisbane Road?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is a little out of date; and with the money from singalongabingo, it is now sitting at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£71,281</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm15">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Ms. B. Reid who provides us with this week’s finisher. Beryl Reid was a popular comedienne and actress in the
1950s and beyond. If she played a part in a film, it tended to be a comedy and she was playing it for laughs. However, she shocked all her fans in 1968 when she played the character of June Buckridge in </span><em><span class="tm23">The Killing of Sister George</span></em><span class="tm15">, a film about the delicate subject (at the time) of lesbian love. She had already won a Tony Award for the stage version in 1967 and was nominated
for, but didn’t win, a Golden Globe Award for best actress in a drama (The award went to Joanne Woodward for </span><em><span class="tm23">Rachel, Rachel</span></em><span class="tm15">, a film that is barely remembered now.). The film marked Reid out as a superb character actress and from that time forward she appeared in many more dramatic roles.
She would go on to win acting awards for </span><em><span class="tm23">Born in the Gardens</span></em><span class="tm15"> and </span><em><span class="tm23">Smiley’s People</span></em><span class="tm15">. It is often said that comedians make good actors, but actors don’t necessarily make good comedians. Beryl Reid proved that beyond doubt.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm15">But, come on, this is thegrambler.com, surely you’re not going to end with something serious are you, I hear you ask. Of course not. We end with a sketch from her show
</span><em><span class="tm23">Beryl Reid Says Good Evening</span></em><span class="tm15">... Please enjoy, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1e_wVzGurE&t=7s">The Crossword Sketch... The Crossword Sketch.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm9">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-14449435646245552992023-06-09T22:38:00.002+01:002023-08-28T23:15:05.266+01:00Post 479 Grambling back in style<p> <em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your letters...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Sir,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I have noticed that there is a striking resemblance Casemiro, the well-known Manchester United midfielder, and a capybara. They both come from Brazil. Are they in any way related?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ken Furlow. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Earworm - (noun) An irritatingly catchy tune.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">You know the feeling, don’t you? You are driving along in your car and a catchy song is playing and you start humming or whistling along to it. Later in the same day, you
are still humming/whistling the same annoying song because you can’t get the damned thing out of your head. That is an earworm.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">But have you ever had a long-term earworm? A tune that you enjoy hearing and you want to find out what it is, but don’t know who to ask. It can take weeks, months or even
years before you find out. Let me explain by giving you some examples of when this has happened to me and, in doing so, give my reason for this week’s topic.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Many, many, many years ago when I was but a whippersnapper, I was walking through my local branch of Boots the chemist. Back then, surprisingly, Boots sold records. This particular
store often had music from a newly released record playing. Usually, the songs played were instantly recognisable; an album track from Slade, or ELO or Status Quo [You really are old, aren’t you? - Ed.], however, on
one occasion, something a little bit different was being played and it was totally unrecognisable. It was an instrumental that seemed to be just played on a synthesiser and there was something about it that was almost hypnotic.
After leaving the store, I couldn’t get this beautiful music out of my head. I was hooked. I just had to have it. I went back into the store on the next evening after finishing work and asked the assistant about
the weird ethereal music that had been playing the day before. He knew exactly what I was talking about and told me it was by Tomato. Minutes later, I was the proud owner of the album Snowflakes are Dancing, subtitled The
newest sound of Debussy, by Isao </span><em><span class="tm8">Tomita</span></em><span class="tm9">... so the shop assistant was close. It was the first time I had actually listened to Claude Debussy’s music and I have
loved his work ever since that time. Here is the track that captured my imagination, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=igHOaMOzzUo">Arabesque No. 1.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Incidentally, if any of you visited the Blackpool Tower aquarium back in the 1980s and 90s, you will recognise the piece immediately. Much of the album was played on a loop. It
suited the environment admirably.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Right, that was an earworm that bugged me for a little more than 24 hours. The next one I refer to happened about the same time, but bugged me for a bit longer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I had been watching the only serious music programme on the TV in those days, The Old Grey Whistle Test. Would you like to know the source of that title? There are several stories
claiming to give the origin, but my favourite go</span><span class="tm9">es </span><span class="tm13">that the name was derived from the days of Tin Pan Alley, where records were written and recorded. Any new record would
be played in the building with the windows open onto a lane that ran by the studios. There would be rough tramp types (old greys) living in the lane and if, after a play or two, they whistled the tune, it was said to have
passed the test. Probably a load of old bollokins, but a good story all the same.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, where was I? Oh yes, watching TOGWT (as it became known). A brilliant track was being played. I recall a colourful animated film fitting the song perfectly. It was an
immediate earworm for me. Again, it was an instrumental piece and, this time, I did know the artist: Pink Floyd. I decided to go to my local record shop (strangely, not Boots on this occasion) and buy the record. Obviously,
it would be an album; no serious music afficionado bought singles. Pah! They were for kids. The shelves were stacked with Pink Floyd’s latest album. Oh, I see, the only reason that track had been on Whistle Test was
to increase sales. Smart. And so, a couple of pound notes were exchanged for a copy of Dark Side of the Moon. Factoid: Did you know that it is the seventh biggest-selling album of all time? Oh, you did. Never mind, then.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Any road up, I took this album home and placed it on my Dansette record player [You’re even older than I thought. - Ed.] and listened for the brilliant tune I had heard just
a few nights earlier. Guess what. It wasn’t there. Wrong album.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13">It would be years before I found out that the name of the track I was expecting to hear was </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raV_A8YcBu0">One of These Days</a> from the album Meddle, which was released two years prior to Dark Side of the Moon.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">I had an even longer wait for my next earworm to be given a title. Even before that muddle with Meddle (Do you see what did there?) I had watched a film called The Horse’s
Mouth. It starred Alec Guinness as an eccentric artist who lived on a houseboat. That’s all I recall of the film itself, but the music was a big part of the film and I enjoyed a particularly jaunty little piece that
often got played. Guess what. I didn’t have a clue what it was.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;">Over the years, the tune would be played on programmes as a bit of background music for an amusing film item, say. It didn’t help me, though. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm13">Some thirty years after seeing that film, I was talking to a workmate about music. We both had a love of classical stuff. I introduced him to ‘the newest sound of Debussy’;
he introduced me to Prokofiev and lent me a cd of the composer’s work. I remember enjoying Romeo and Juliet and realised that I knew most of Peter and The Wolf. What I didn’t know, or at least thought I didn’t
know, was </span><span class="tm9">Lieutenant Kijé. It was the music which Prokofiev had written to accompany a 1934 film of the same name which covers the ‘life’ of an individual whose very existence was
due to a colossal clerical cockup and because no-one would own up to making the error, the mistake was covered up and Kijé’s existence was documented from birth to death, with even a fictitious marriage thrown
in for good measure. It sounds like a decent plot, that’ll be why Hollywood hasn’t covered it, then. The music was a five-piece suite; each piece covering a period in Kijé’s life. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Anyway, In the middle of the suite there it was... the clip from that Alec Guinness film. After so many years, I had found my jaunty little piece. [Ooer missus. - Ed.] Have a listen
and see if you can </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fr6eFP07uU0">spot it.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Imagine that; thirty years 'til I found out the name of a tune. Wait. There’s more. Here is the reason I am writing this piece.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">When I was but a nipper, there was an advert on the television for Summer County margarine, I think. I can’t really remember, it was that long ago. What I can remember is
the music that accompanied the ad. It wasn’t a classical piece but it certainly wasn’t modern-sounding. At that very early age, I just thought it was a lovely piece of music. Did I know its name? Of course
not. How long 'til I would find out its name? Erm... 60 years...ish.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I was at a funeral very recently and, as is the norm these days, a favourite tune of the deceased was played at some point during the service. This guy’s choice? That tune
from the marge ad of the early 1960s. Finally, I know its name. I can die a happy man. It is called </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArgKCGB3Y0s">Elizabethan Serenade.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have, a musical lifetime in just a few paragraphs. What have you learned? Probably just that I have a weird taste in music.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm13"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? We’re covering a few week’s here, so strap in tightly...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 20th of May? Of course there were. Here are some that even I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Stuart Mill 1806</span><span class="tm9"> - </span><span class="tm13">‘The most influential English-speaking philosopher of the nineteenth century</span><span class="tm9">.’</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jimmy James 1892 - Comedian.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Peter Copley 1915 - Actor. Dr. Richard Montagu in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Foundation</span></em><span class="tm9">. 203 IMDb credits in a career spanning 70 years.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Betty Driver 1920 - Actress. Betty Turpin/Williams in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">. She was in 2679 episodes.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdtBTsrfBgkPHCV_cq3IIV6Jnkq0Z8tcxa8556Gt3ZKpgdIfkDAOtk2ovL1Va2wBFlnVdE0a4sxnnWldNZ7VBsSWFZStRZeAk2PIci8V6u9gpw1oLcoLiuknXCu9Nm_uJew_EqnWBF6hxoQDUP2p2qvNANk6ypHBsCTdo5-_928e-5yT-hXZ8aT5M/s452/betty%20driver.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="327" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdtBTsrfBgkPHCV_cq3IIV6Jnkq0Z8tcxa8556Gt3ZKpgdIfkDAOtk2ovL1Va2wBFlnVdE0a4sxnnWldNZ7VBsSWFZStRZeAk2PIci8V6u9gpw1oLcoLiuknXCu9Nm_uJew_EqnWBF6hxoQDUP2p2qvNANk6ypHBsCTdo5-_928e-5yT-hXZ8aT5M/s320/betty%20driver.jpg" width="232" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Betty Driver in her pre hotpot days</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Peter Hughes 1922 - Jobbing actor. One of those faces that cropped up everywhere. Often played unnamed characters such as Man on train, Factory foreman, Porter, Fire officer,
Party guest, Ticket collector, Steward, Porter, Postman, Butler and (my favourite) Cheeky man. I recall him as the father in a series of Kellogg’s Cornflake adverts.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Elizabeth Bradley 1922 - Actress. Maud Grimes in </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Neil McCallum 1929 - Actor. Played Angelo James in </span><em><span class="tm8">Vendetta</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Roy Heather 1935 - Actor. Sid in </span><em><span class="tm8">Only Fools and Horses</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lynn Davies 1</span><span class="tm9">942 - Dyn sy'n neidio.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Frew McMillan 1942 - Tennisy blike.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Martin Honeysett 1943 - Cartoonist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Joe Cocker 1944 - Singer. Have a clip. Here’s the one that got him noticed, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3LQ-FReO7Q">With a Little Help from My Friends.</a> [That was a lot better than Ringo’s version. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Keith Fletcher 1944 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Greg Dyke 1947 - TV executive.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Nick Heyward 1961 - Musician. Singer with Haircut One Hundred before embarking on a solo career. Here’s a solo effort from 2017 entitled </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ZA7u6etaNU">The Stars.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Owen Teale 1961 - Actor. Conor Devlin in </span><em><span class="tm8">Ballykissangel</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian ‘Nasher’ Nash 1963 - Musician. Guitarist with Frankie Goes to Hollywood. Have a clip, here’s </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0mu4o-eWv4">War followed by Two Tribes.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jenny Funnell 1963 - Actress. Sandy in </span><em><span class="tm8">As Time Goes By</span></em><span class="tm9">. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Charles Spencer 1964 - Posh bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Louis Theroux 1970 - Documentary maker.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tina Hobley 1972 - Actress and DJ. Chrissie Williams in </span><em><span class="tm8">Holby City</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Graham Potter 1975 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jessica Raine 1982 - Actress. Lucy in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Devil’s Hour</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Chris Froome 1985 - Bike racey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Robert Emms 1986 - Actor. Thomas in </span><em><span class="tm8">His Dark Materials</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Josh O’Connor 1990 - Actor. Lawrence Durrell in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Durrells</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now, what about the 27th of May?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Arnold Bennett 1867 - Author with a rather nice omelette named in his honour.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Frank Woolley 1887 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Cockcroft 1897 - Physicist. Factoid: He switched on the Atomic Station Scottish Research Reactor in 1963 here in Polomint City.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Harry Webster 1917 - Automotive engineer.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Bob Godfrey 1921 - Animator. Famous for his jerky style. </span><em><span class="tm8">Roobarb</span></em><span class="tm9"> (and Custard) was one of his.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ivor Slaney 1921 - Composer. Here’s one of his, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2VaU_omUOg">Carlos' Theme.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Christopher Lee 1922 - Actor. Lord Summerisle in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Wicker Man</span></em><span class="tm9">. 287 credits on IMDb in a career lasting over 70 years.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Peter Ling 1926 - TV writer. Co-creator of </span><em><span class="tm8">Crossroads</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian Cowgill 1927 - TV executive.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jeffrey Bernard 1932 - Journalist. Subject of Keith Waterhouse’s play </span><em><span class="tm8">Jeffrey Bernard Is Unwell</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Billy Stark 1937 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Piers Courage 1942 - Racey car bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Cilla Black 1943 - Singer, it says here. I could give you a lorra lorra clips, but I’ll just you the one. Here’s her first ever single, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJ4rr-K_Bqo">Love of the Loved.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lewis Collins 1946 - Actor. Bodie in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Professionals</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">John Conteh 1951 - Boxery bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Danny McGrain 1953 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Susan Ballion aka Siouxsie Sioux 1957 - Singer with the Banshees. Let’s have another clip. Here’s the group’s first hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-l9GQJRl9Y">Hong Kong Garden.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Duncan Goodhew 1957 - Swimmy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gerard Kelly 1959 - Actor. Willie Melvin in </span><em><span class="tm8">City Lights</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Heston Blumenthal 1966 - He cooks food.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Paul Gascoigne 1967 - Foo’y blurk, laik.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Rebekah Brooks 1968 - Journo.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Joseph Fiennes 1970 - Actor. Will Shakespeare in </span><em><span class="tm8">Shakespeare in Love</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lee Sharpe 1971 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Petroc Trelawny 1971 - Broadcaster and not a character out of a Jane Austen novel.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Paul Bettany 1972 - Actor. Ian Campbell in </span><em><span class="tm8">A Very British Scandal</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Denise van Outen 1974 - Actress, model, singer, TV presenter, voiceover artist... in fact, a right old smarty boots. Factoid: She added the ‘van’ in her name to make
it sound more interesting claiming that her ancestors were all Dutch.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jamie Oliver 1975 - He cooks food like that Heston Bloomingtwerp bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Derek Young 1980 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And now, let’s hear it for the 3rd of June...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Henry Shrapnel 1761 - Army officer and b****** who devised the horrific shell that bears his name.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Neil Munro 1863 - Writer who gave us the Clyde puffer, Vital Spark and its skipper Para Handy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">George V 1865 - The well-known monarch and philatelist (They can’t touch you for it.).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Zoltan Korda 1895 - Film screenwriter, director and producer. Alexander’s wee bro.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">William Douglas Home 1912 - Posh political bloke who also turned his hand to writing plays. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Derek Godfrey 1924 - Actor. One of those faces that turned up in all sorts of British dramas in the 1960s and 70s. Robert Kennedy (No, not that one.) in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Pallisers</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Arnold Peters 1925 - Actor. Played Jack Woolley in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Archers</span></em><span class="tm9"> for 43 years.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Thomas Winning 1925 - Churchy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Hunter 1939 - Singer [Singer!? - Ed.] with Mott the Hoople. A clip? Why not. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MyJHh451Y4">Roll Away The Stone.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Anita Harris 1944 - Singer and actress. Have another clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yV-2MfhWQ30">Trains and Boats and Planes.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Bill Paterson 1945 - Actor. Dad in </span><em><span class="tm8">Fleabag</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Brian Barnes 1945 - Golfy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mickey Finn 1947 - The drummy bloke from T. Rex. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OG7ZU7PdGpk">Ride a White Swan.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Clive Shakespeare 1947 - Musician. Guitarist with Sherbet. This one reached number one... in Australia. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pv7_VntPKyA">Summer Love.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">John Moulder-Brown 1953 - Actor. Felix Krull in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Confessions of Felix Krull</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">George Burley 1956 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Clive Mantle 1957 - Actor. Mike Barratt in </span><em><span class="tm8">Casualty</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Cameron Sharp 1958 - Runny bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ed Wynne 1961 - Musician. Main man of my absolute favourite band, Ozric Tentacles. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUegINYOEzU">Space for the Earth.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Les Bubb 1969 - Mime artist.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Kelly Jones 1974 - Stereophonics frontman. A clip? Go on then. Here’s the band’s first top ten hit </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rzD52hOChs">The Bartender and the Thief.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jodie Whittaker 1982 - Actress. Doctor Who number 13.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Michelle Keegan 1987 - Actress. Kate Thorne in </span><em><span class="tm8">Ten Pound Poms</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Nicky Clark 1991 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And finally, let’s have a big welcome for those born on the 10th of June...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">James Stuart 1688 - Known as the Old Pretender [Woo oo woo oo. - Ed.]. Claimed to be James III of England (VIII of Scotland).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Harry Wragg 1902 - Horse racey bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Terence Rattigan 1911 - Playwright. The Winslow Boy, that was one of his.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Bill Waddington 1916 - Actor. Percy er... Sugden in er... </span><em><span class="tm8">Coronation Street</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Barry Morse 1918 - Actor. President Johnny Cyclops in </span><em><span class="tm8">Whoops Apocalypse</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Prince Philip 1921 - The well-known duke famous for putting his size ten in it.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Ludvik Hoch aka Robert Maxwell aka the Bouncing Czech 1923 - Newspaper owner and crook (allegedly).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lionel Jeffries 1926 - Actor. Granpa Potts in </span><em><span class="tm8">Chitty Chitty Bang Bang</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ian Campbell 1933 - Folk singer. Had a hit with the Dylan song, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvdjRlEHTNA">The Times They Are A Changing.</a> Factoid: Did you know Ian was UB40's Ally and Robin Campbell's dad? Neither did I till I wrote this. Today has not been wasted.</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Joe McBride 1938 - Fitba guy. Played for Motherwell, you know.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Gordon Burns 1942 - Journalist and broadcaster. He also presented </span><em><span class="tm8">The Krypton Factor</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Terence Higgins 1945 - AIDS victim after whom the charity is named.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Benny Gallagher 1945 - Musician. Here he is with Graham Lyle performing </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u40FqKgeBJA">Breakaway.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Beryl Marsden 1947 - Singer. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtpAuIJ40u0">I Only Care About You.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Phil Redmond 1949 - TV producer and screenwriter. He created </span><em><span class="tm8">Grange Hill</span></em><span class="tm9">,</span><em><span class="tm8"> Brookside</span></em><span class="tm9"> and </span><em><span class="tm8">Hollyoaks</span></em></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Duncan McKenzie 1950 - Footy bloke. Factoid: He could jump over a mini being driven at him. It was a dangerous stunt and one his manager banned him from ever doing again once
he found out about it.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Lindsay Hoyle 1957 - Politician. Speaker in the House of Commons.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Max Elliott aka Maxi Priest 1961 - Singer and songwriter. Here’s his biggest hit, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4ZWD_0VRK8">Wild World.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stuart McCall 1964 - Footy bloke. He managed Motherwell, you know. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Ben Daniels 1964 - Actor. Lord Snowdon in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Crown</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Elizabeth Hurley 1965 - Actress, it says here. Vanessa Kensington in </span><em><span class="tm8">Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Andy Millen 1965 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Platt 1966 - Footy bloke. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Chris Coleman 1970 - Dyn pêl-droed</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Kwasi Dankwah aka Tinchy Stryder 1986 - Singer (well... rapper) and songwriter. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Im1sAUxDtF4">Stryderman.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Aaron Hickey 2002 - Fitba guy.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Grambli Priest,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was lovely to hear the old Cat Stevens song, Wild World, given the reggae treatment. Did you have any more top ten records?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours devotedly,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlFK2MpKnJU">Chloe Stirr-Yew.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Drablokes fare? How should I know? It was weeks ago. Hang on a mo; I’ll have a look... Oh. I wish I hadn’t bothered. We lost. Not a
penny back. Oh well.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Listen, since it all happened so long ago, let’s not bother with match reports and all that. Let’s just try and conjure up something to back this week, now that UK
football has packed its bags and gone on holiday. I know, let’s head to Argentina Primera and Primera B divisions. [Do you think that’s wise? - Ed.] Yeah. Let’s go for it.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">All games take place between the 10th and 12th of June.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Newell’s Old Boys vs Union de Santa Fe - Home win - 20/21</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">San Lorenzo de Almagro vs Central Cordoba - Home win - 4/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Banfield vs River Plate - Away win - 8/11</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">San Martin de San Juan vs Alvarado - Home win - 4/6</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">Agropecuario Argentino vs Atletico Guemes - 7/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm14" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm19"></span><em><u><span class="tm20">£9.70</span></u></em></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Totally unwhopping. An insult to the word.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm23"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I was born in </span><span class="tm9">São Gonçalo, Rio de Janeiro in 2000, I began my senior career at Flamengo in 2017, moving to my present club, Real Madrid in 2018
for the sum of £38 million, the highest amount paid for any player under the age n n n n nineteen. I scored the winning goal in the 2022 Champions League Cup Final. I have been capped for Brazil 21 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Vinícius Júnior</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Who has managed... deep breath... Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town, Wigan Athletic (twice), Crystal Palace, Birmingham City, Sunderland, Hull City, Aston Villa, Sheffield Wednesday,
Newcastle United and West Bromwich Albion?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Steve Bruce</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who was the youngest player to have played for Chelsea in the Premier League?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Jody Morris (17 years 44 days)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who is Leeds United’s all-time highest goalscorer?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Peter Lorimer (238)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club plays its home games at Recreation Park?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Alloa Athletic </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Shall we have five for this week? Yes, why not...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Northampton in 1996. A striker, I began my senior career at Northampton Town before moving to Newcastle United. During three years at St. James’ Park, I only played
twice for Newcastle but was loaned out to Barnsley, Shrewsbury Town, Scunthorpe United and Wigan Athletic. I then moved to Peterborough United before transferring to my present club, Brentford. Unfortunately, due to some
breaches of gambling laws, I am currently serving an eight month suspension.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Talking of bad boys, which team is managed by Duncan Ferguson?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who, at 15 years 181 days, was the youngest ever player in the top flight of English football? </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Which club plays its home games at Bescot Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. What was the original name of Dundee United?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><u><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></u></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is a little out of date; it is now sitting at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm9"><i><u>£68,704</u></i></span></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm14"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm14" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm18"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm16">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Mr. L. Bubb, a mime artist who provides us with this week’s finisher. A mime artist? I hear you ask in your best Lady Bracknell voice. I know, I know, mime is not my favourite type of act either, but this guy is different. He really is. In fact, I would go as far as saying he is bloody brilliant. Ladeez and genullum, I give
you </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgB-I1S8tC0">Les Bubb!</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm9">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2395690025215660503.post-14059868529931928272023-05-13T18:06:00.001+01:002023-05-13T18:07:36.731+01:00Post 478 - A gramblevision special<p><em><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to The Grambler, the most ill-informed blog you are ever likely to see.</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">Stewart was an amazing person - A wonderful husband, a fantastic brother, a loving son and an adored uncle. He was also a brilli</span><span class="tm9">ant friend and colleague and is missed by so many people. His family are determined that his death will never be in vain and are doing their part to beat bowel cancer for good. We are fundraising for the Bobby
Moore Fund which is part of Cancer Research UK and specialises in research into bowel cancer. If you wish to donate to the fund, you can via</span> </em><span class="tm10"> </span><u><a href="https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/kick-cancers-backside"><span class="tm9">The Grambler’s Kick Cancer’s Backside (cancerresearchuk.org)</span></a></u><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span class="tm8">If you haven’t already done so, please read the article which appeared in the Daily Record and learn from Stewart’s story that you must never be complacent. It makes
grim reading for us, his family, even though we were beside him throughout h</span><span class="tm9">is ordeal, or battle; call it what you will. </span></em><u><a href="http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997"><span class="tm9">http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/heartbroken-widow-geraldine-smith-raises-3452997</span></a><span class="tm10"> </span></u></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm8">Stewart began writing The Grambler when he was between procedures and hoping for some form of recovery. He loved all aspects of </span><span class="tm9">football and was a lifelong Motherwell supporter. His wish was that The Grambler should continue after his death and I have been happy to oblige. Read on and enjoy</span><span class="tm9">…</span></span></em></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Your queries answered...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">To Miss Flasker of Lower Podville, yes some are battery-operated but nowadays most are rechargeable.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Story time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Well, boom bang a bang, knock knock, who’s there and shine a light if it isn’t time for the Eurovision Song Contest. Huzzah!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">For those of you who don’t know, the Eurovision Song Contest is a yearly event (running since 1956) to decide the best tune from most of the European countries (and Israel... and Australia. Since
when were they European?) Every year, each nation enters a particular song in an attempt to win this coveted prize of the best song in all of Europe.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It’s all got a bit political these days, with certain countries refusing to vote for certain other countries. Actually, that is nothing new; back in 1968 it is said that
General Franco, the well-known Spanish dictator, nobbled the juries so that the song entered by Spain won. Britain came second on that occasion and would have won were it not for these political machinations. It should have
been congratulations to Cliff Richard, but it wasn’t to be. Do you see what I did there? [Only Brits with long memories would spot it. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Actually, a similar thing happened last year. Sam Ryder was poised to win for Britain for the first time since 1997, but the sympathy vote went to Ukraine, so they won. How patronising
is that? Your country is being ripped apart by the Ruskies, so what does the rest of Europe do? Let you win a song contest. Well, whoop de f****** doo.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Changing the subject slightly, it seems to me that there could be other Euro (and elsewhere) wide contests. Why not a contest aimed at perfumiers to see which country can come
up with the best fragrance each year? It could be called the Eurovision Pong Contest. [Oh no. Not this again. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Or how about a contest aimed squarely at those who enjoy the occasional recreational drug? Yes, it could ascertain who can make the most efficient filtration device for smoking
cannabis. The Eurovision Bong Contest. [Oh dear. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Then we could have a competition among the makers of cutlery. That would decide who made the best eating utensil. [A fork, obviously. - Ed.] Obviously. That would be the Eurovision
Prong Contest. [I walked into that one. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">On a similar note what about a competition to find the best commemorative medal? [I think I might have guessed this one. Is it the Eurovision Gong Contest? - Ed.] It is, indeed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Our politicians often make blunders, don’t they? [Where’s this one going? - Ed.] I wonder if other European countries have such incompetent leaders. There could be
an annual contest to see just who has made the biggest cock-up of the year - the Eurovision Wrong Contest. [I think everyone has had enough now. Please stop. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">And finally, [Thank goodness. - Ed.] I think everyone enjoys church bells (as long as they aren’t played all through the night) so, how about a competition to see which church
from Europe has the best peal of bells. That would be the Eurovision Dong Contest. [That could have been worse; at least you kept it clean. - Ed.]</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Pardon? I’m not with you. Ohhh... I see what you’re getting at. Damn, I hadn’t thought of that one... On second thoughts, maybe not. Mind you, there might
be a certain TV channel that would be interested in the idea... Dear Channel 4 (the channel that makes </span><em><span class="tm8">Naked Attraction</span></em><span class="tm9">), I have a programme idea that you might like...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">To finish this week’s story time, a teaser for you. What was the first song from the Eurovision Song Contest to become a worldwide hit? Answer at the end.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Birthday honours...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Let’s move on to the birthday honours, shall we? </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9"></span><span class="tm9">Were any famous or not so well-known individuals born on the 13th of May? Of course there were. Here are some that even I have heard of.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Vesta Tilley 1864 - The original cross-dresser. Have a clip, Here’s, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJuAF_pS9gg">It's Part of a Policeman's Duty.</a> That was recorded 116 years ago [Sounds it. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Eileen Fowler 1906 - The well-known keep-fit instructor. Try and work this out without having the instruction leaflet. Come on, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qXa02A8gnc">Rise and Shine.</a> [She sounds a bit bossy, to me. - Ed.]</span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Daphne du Maurier 1907 - Orfer. Jamaica Inn, that was one of hers.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Robert Dorning 1913 - Actor. Often played pompous officious types in sitcoms of the 60s and 70s. The Rt. Hon. Hesketh Pendleton in </span><em><span class="tm8">Bootsie and Snudge</span></em><span class="tm9">. Ask your granny.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Phil Drabble 1914 - TV presenter. He fronted </span><em><span class="tm8">One Man and His Dog</span></em><span class="tm9">. a really exciting programme about sheepdogs herding sheep... yawn!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdQP8xx5uH1IObolMtoiHHEahukp0Wqpax665U9o3ViUOBOsR1n32C_K1wSGGCNOKprj5bv3AtQbtTr-vK_y1QeaHOzEbyzAAlrclB45Hqmsqf5NR093w30jwslLQ-af_vI2H9EzFgvfB9UgpUOQn1_AcU3uyoP49_jhTgBoJg94j-ATlF1OkU4z1/s471/phil%20drabble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="374" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdQP8xx5uH1IObolMtoiHHEahukp0Wqpax665U9o3ViUOBOsR1n32C_K1wSGGCNOKprj5bv3AtQbtTr-vK_y1QeaHOzEbyzAAlrclB45Hqmsqf5NR093w30jwslLQ-af_vI2H9EzFgvfB9UgpUOQn1_AcU3uyoP49_jhTgBoJg94j-ATlF1OkU4z1/s320/phil%20drabble.jpg" width="254" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyone seen me dog?</span></div><p></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Harry Driver 1931 - Comedy scriptwriter. With co-writer Vince Powell, he was responsible for such gems as </span><em><span class="tm8">George and the Dragon</span></em><span class="tm9">, </span><em><span class="tm8">Never Mind the Quality, Feel the Width</span></em><span class="tm9">, </span><em><span class="tm8">Nearest and Dearest</span></em><span class="tm9">, </span><em><span class="tm8">For the Love of Ada</span></em><span class="tm9">, </span><em><span class="tm8">Bless This House</span></em><span class="tm9"> and the programme which just wouldn’t be commissioned nowadays, </span><em><span class="tm8">Love Thy Neighbour</span></em><span class="tm9">. Ask your granny.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Terry Scully 1932 - Actor. Bicket in </span><em><span class="tm8">The Forsyte Saga</span></em><span class="tm9"> (the 1967 one).</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Stella Rimington 1935 - Spy mistress.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Trevor Baylis 1937 - Inventor of the wind-up radio.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Anna Cropper 1938 - Actress. Margaret Castle in </span><em><span class="tm8">Castles</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Milton Johns 1938 - Actor (Not David Battley). Seems to specialise in sinister or obsequious (That’s a good word. Must look it up.) roles. Played a character called Clarence
Creep in the children’s series </span><em><span class="tm8">Happy Families</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Frank Jarvis 1941 - Actor. Glen in </span><em><span class="tm8">Catterick</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Joe Brown 1941 - Musician and singer. Have a clip; you’ll recognise </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dj0Og3vONpw">this.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Miles Kington 1941 - Journalist and musician. He was part of a comedy quartet known as Instant Sunshine who suggested a way to get around food shortages; here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_engziQyM_4">Worms.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Jeff Astle 1942 - Footy bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Vivien Heilbron 1944 - Actress. Kay Grant in </span><em><span class="tm8">Take the High Road</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Clive Radley 1944 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tim Pigott-Smith 1946 - Actor. Sir Henry Ponsonby in </span><em><span class="tm8">Victoria & Abdul</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">David Hughes 1947 - Crickety bloke.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Rab Noakes 1947 - Singer/songwriter. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIxqk_7ekm4">Branch.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Overend Watts 1947 - Musician. Bassist with Mott the Hoople. Have a clip. Here’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKmvTcSzcE8">Roll Away the Stone.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Zoe Wanamaker 1948 - Actress. Susan Harper in </span><em><span class="tm8">My Family</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Andy Cunningham 1950 - Actor/puppeteer. Simon Bodger in </span><em><span class="tm8">Bodger and Badger</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Danny Kirwan 1950 - Musician. Guitarist with Fleetwood Mac. Here’s a real oldie, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPW9yn8KCww">Albatross.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Selina Scott 1951 - TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Jane Cox 1952 - Actress. Lisa Dingle in </span><em><span class="tm8">Emmerdale</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Richard Madeley 1956 - TV presenter.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Mark Heap 1957 - Actor. Jim Bell in </span><em><span class="tm8">Friday Night Dinner</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Frances Barber 1958 - Actress. Connie Woolf in </span><em><span class="tm8">Funland</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Lorraine McIntosh 1964 - Singer with Deacon Blue. Have a clip. All together now... </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SD4lI9GKUE">Woo oo, woo oo, woo oo, woo oo.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Tamsin Little 1965 - Fiddler. Have a clip. Here’s a bit of </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dev2J7ihCJM">Schindler's List.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Alison Goldfrapp 1965 - Musician. Best known as the vocalist with Goldfrapp [There’s a coincidence. - Ed.] Methinks a clip is called for. Here’s the duo’s best-performing
single, </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uco-2V4ytYQ">Ooh La La.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Natalie Cassidy 1983 - Actress. Sonia in </span><em><span class="tm8">Eastenders</span></em><span class="tm9">. You slaaaag!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Iwan Rheon 1985 - Actor. Ramsay Bolton/Snow in </span><em><span class="tm8">Game of Thrones</span></em><span class="tm9">.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Robert Pattinson 1986 - Actor. Edward Cullen in </span><em><span class="tm8">Twilight</span></em><span class="tm9"> and its many spinoffs.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><br /></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve received a letter...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Alison Gramblefrapp,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">It was nice to hear a song from your little group, although I’m surprised Norman Greenbaum didn’t try to sue you. Tell me, what was Goldfrapp’s last top ten hit?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Yours with inquisitiveness,</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7Ptai9I6eo">Ian Dee.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Gramble time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">How did our last bet with Drablokes fare? We won. Yay! Not really worth a yay; only £2.30 back from our £2.20 stake, but still a profit. What happened? Read on.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Motherwell vs Kilmarnock - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Motherwell 2 Kilmarnock 0</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">YAHOOOOO!!!!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Slack defending from Kilmarnock allowed Blair Spittal to bury an early opener.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The visitors responded by hitting Liam Kelly's woodwork with a Danny Armstrong free-kick, but Killie were fortunate not to be two down at the break when a narrow offside call
ruled out Kevin van Veen's finish.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">However, the Dutchman got the goal his performance merited in second-half injury time as a sublime solo effort sealed three points for the Steelmen.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Hibs vs St. Mirren - Home win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Result - Hibs 2 St. Mirren 1</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Only three minutes had passed when Hibs’ ElieYouan gave them the lead. Marcus Fraser received a throw and misread the situation, his clearance clattering straight into the
Frenchman, who raced clear and finished with composure.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The second was similarly simple. A corner whipped to the front post bounced all the way to the back, where an unmarked Will Fish [Will fish what? Swim? - Ed.] ...ahem... nodded
in.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Hibs had plenty of chances to kill the game. Chris Cadden failed to convert a Kevin Nisbet cross before they traded roles in the second half, with the Scotland striker blasting
over from Cadden's cut-back. Josh Campbell went close twice, too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">St Mirren needed a response and they got one. Curtis Main swept into the arms of David Marshall from three yards, but the keeper was less brick wall and more open door when Alex
Greive went clear through and jabbed a tame shot under him.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">With a solitary goal in it, the visitors tried their best to find an equaliser. However, they would come no closer than the side netting when Lewis Jamieson fired inches wide.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Clyde vs Montrose - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">No review available but Montrose won 2 - 1.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Edinburgh City vs Airdrie - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">No review available but Airdrie won 4 - 1.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Yay!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Albion vs Stirling - Away win</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">No review available but Albion Rovers won 2 - 0.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Boo!</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">That was last week, what about this? The Grambler has selected from the few games taking place at 3pm and come up with this. Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear...</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><em><span class="tm15"><span style="font-size: large;">Game - Result - Odds</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Aberdeen vs Hibs - Home win - 11/10</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Dundee Utd. vs Ross County - Home win - 6/5</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Kilmarnock vs Livingstone - Home win - 17/20</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Falkirk vs Airdrieonians - Home win - Evens</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">Dumbarton vs Annan - Away win - 6/4</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">The bets have been placed - Ten 20 pee doubles plus a single 20 pee accumulator. If the results go as predicted by The Grambler, the Bobby Moore Fund will be richer to the tune
of a whopping</span></span></p>
<h1 class="tm11 tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><span class="tm18"></span><em><u><span class="tm19">£15.08</span></u></em></span></strong></h1>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh crikey! That really is whopping. If they all win as predicted by The Grambler, I’ll have to buy me a hat to eat.*</span></span></p><p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;">* As I am late publishing this week, I can confirm that no hats need to be consumed. Only one result correct out of five. Rubbish!</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm20"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><strong><span class="tm21"><span style="font-size: large;">Teaser time...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">Yay! How did you get on with the five teasers set last time? Here are the answers.</span></span></p>
<p class="PlainText tm7"><span class="tm22"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">I was born in 1989 in Split, Croatia. A winger, I began my senior career at Sochaux II (loaned out to Roeselare) before moving to Club Brugge, then Borussia Dortmund, VfL Wolfsburg,
Inter Milan (loaned out to Bayern Munich) and am currently at Tottenham Hotspur. I have been capped for Croatia 125 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Answer - </span><span class="tm9">Ivan Perišić</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Talking of Spurs, who is the only Colombian player in Tottenham Hotspur’s current squad of players?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Answer - </span><span class="tm9">Davinson Sánchez</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. How many Welsh sides will be playing in the English Football League system next season?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Four (Cardiff City, Swansea City, Newport County and Wrexham)</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Cristiano Ronaldo is, unsurprisingly, Real Madrid’s highest goalscorer, but who is their next highest scorer?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Karim Benzema</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club plays its home games at The Peninsula Stadium?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Answer - Salford City</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Now then, what about five for this week?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Who am I?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">I was born in </span><span class="tm9">São Gonçalo, Rio de Janeiro in 2000, I began my senior career at Flamengo in 2017, moving to my present club, Real Madrid in 2018
for the sum of £38 million, the highest amount paid for any player under the age n n n n nineteen. I scored the winning goal in the 2022 Champions League Cup Final. I have been capped for Brazil 21 times.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Who has managed... deep breath... Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town, Wigan Athletic (twice), Crystal Palace, Birmingham City, Sunderland, Hull City, Aston Villa, Sheffield Wednesday,
Newcastle United and West Bromwich Albion?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Who was the youngest player to have played for Chelsea in the Premier League?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who is Leeds United’s all-time highest goalscorer? I don’t mean he was on drugs, I mean he scored more</span></span><span class="tm9" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: medium;">goals</span></span><span class="tm23" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span class="tm23">than</span><span class="tm23" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span class="tm24"><span style="font-size: x-small;">anyone</span></span><span class="tm24" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">else</span><span style="font-size: large;">...<span class="tm9"> I’ll get me coat.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Which club plays its home games at Recreation Park?</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">There you have it; five teasers to test you. As always, try and answer them before shouting out Hey Googly, Syria or Alexis. Please feel free to pass on the link to your pals so that
they can enjoy The Grambler’s footy teasers too.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><strong><span class="tm12"><span style="font-size: large;">Remember the serious message...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">As usual (at the risk of repeating myself), I remind you of the main reason for continuing to publish this blog –</span><span class="tm9"> </span><span class="tm9">to raise awareness about bowel cancer. If you have any bowel problems, don’t be fobbed off with the line that you are too young for bowel cancer to be a consideration. Just point
your doctor in the direc</span><span class="tm9">tion of (the already mentioned) </span><a href="https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/campaigning/never-too-young/"><span class="tm9">Never Too Young | Bowel Cancer UK</span></a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><u><span class="tm10"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></u></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">.....oooOooo.....</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Please, take a few minutes to watch an informative little video from Mersh (a great friend of Stewart’s). </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">Click on this link: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4"><span class="tm9">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26HWQXMalX4</span></a><span>. </span><span class="tm9">The amount raised is a little out of date; and with the money from singalongabingo, it is now sitting at...</span></span></p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff00fe; font-family: Diplomata; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u><span class="tm9">£68,704</span></u></i></b></span></h1>
<p class="Normal tm13"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm13" style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span class="tm14"><span style="font-size: large;">…..oooOooo…..</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><strong><span class="tm16"><span style="font-size: large;">And Finally...</span></span></strong></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm17">And finally, Cyril? And finally, Esther, I am indebted to a Signore D. Modugno who provides us with this week’s closing item. He was, of course, the singer of the first
big international hit from the Eurovision Song Contest and the name of that song was... yes, you at the back? No, it wasn’t Puppet on a String. No, nor Waterloo. No, not All Kinds of Everything. Since, you don’t
know I’ll tell you. It was Nel blu, dipinto di blu (It translates to In the blue that is painted blue. What a daft title.) It didn’t win the contest (it came third), though it had previously won the Sanremo Music
Festival. It became a huge hit in Italy, selling 800,000 copies. It topped the US Billboard chart and sold over 2 million copies in the States. Billboard named it as Song of the Year in 1958. At the time of its success,
it was recorded by eight other international singers. You don’t recognise its name do you? You perhaps had a different name for it. Any road up, I am sure you will </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4IjJav7xbg">recognise it.</a></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm11 tm7"><span class="tm17"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tm9">That’s all for this week folks, but remember you can read the musings of The</span><span class="tm10"> </span><span class="tm9">Grambler every week (well, most weeks) by going to the blog at </span><a href="http://www.thegrambler.com"><span class="tm9">www.thegrambler.com</span></a><span> where you can also catch up on any previous editions you may have missed.</span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal tm7"><span class="tm9"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy grambling. </span></span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p>The Gramblerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311105886265544822noreply@blogger.com0