Georgette Heyer
Ms Heyer married a mining engineer and lawyer, a Mr Rougier. But my introduction to the family Rougier was through appearing as an expert witness of and for a Mr B, an unpleasant fellow, in the High Court. Sir Richard was very kind to me as I muddled through the misfiled papers given to me by Mr B's lawyers. Nonetheless Mr B won and I like to think that this was because of my efforts in large part. Anyway, a few weeks after the trial I invited Sir Richard to dinner at The Caf
1 day ago1 min read
Flutter
What used to be Betfair is now contemplating leaving the LSE. I am not entirely surprised. HMG has gone about destroying Flutter's UK business and so has Flutter. There used to be a case for Flutter displaying its wares to a UK public but that argument hardly applies when the company itself sets about destroying its business. Written by Simon Cawkwell, May 2026
3 days ago1 min read
Deltic (DELT)
At long last the cash bid emerged at 7.7p. Completion is expected in the third quarter of 2026. Nothing to be done unless you fancy buying at 7p and waiting. Some will.
3 days ago1 min read
A find
Astonishingly, Tesco online shopping and possibly in its own stores offers 2019 Vintage Brut Champagne at £32 a bottle. This is superb and I advise garglers to head along swiftly. It will not last.
5 days ago1 min read
The tension mounts
But I am waiting for one of my niece's boys, probably the youngest, to phone that May The Fourth Be With You. In the meantime I remind readers that today farmers are denied use of their sheepdogs since it is Ban Collie Day.
May 41 min read
In Sickness and in Power
This is the title of a fascinating book by David, Lord Owen, who might himself have become prime minister. It is astonishing how leaders suffer from hubris and, of course, the subsequent nemesis. My father who was an expert on the ancient world could not bring himself to I this or I that since he was terrified (do I exaggerate?) by the consequences.
May 31 min read
Zack Polanski is finished
Polanski's win at Gorton and Denton was disturbing. But he has ben inspected ever since and been found wanting. Decca Aitkenhead in today's STimes colour Magazine supplement finishes him off or, perhaps, it might be best stated that any reasonable question put to Polanski gives off a lunatic reply. He is on his way down. Phew!
May 31 min read
