RJRB

What a rotten decision to further devalue the FA Cup and rob football fans of clubs outside the elite few of the matches that bring excitement and revenue to their clubs. The sooner that these elite club create their Super League and competitions the better for the rest of football.

That is my opinion. With the approach of the Summer Olympics there is the usual hoo hah about which countries should be able to compete under their national flag. Similar controversy arises at any international sporting event. Pressure from governments and political influence from within the various sporting bodies only serves to eliminate one area of common ground that exists between all countries.

As the brain seems to send a message to some that they need a drink .Not a thirst quenching glass of water ,but for the effects of the alcoholic content,and whilst I accept that many can enjoy a drink without being anti social,you cannot escape the truth that many drink to alter their normal state of mind. I would also contend that those that do drink to excess cause far more cost and trouble to both the NHS and the police. You have thrown a fair few pejorative terms in there directed at smokers.As you say in a period of a very few years the anti smoking lobby have successfully mounted a campaign that has alienated smokers even in the open air. There are smoking and none smoking areas that I abide by and you should live with. As someone who rarely has a drink nowadays I find the company of those who are under the influence rather boring.

You are really struggling to differentiate between the any difference derived from nicotine and alcohol.Probably because there is none

So the same logic could be applied to anyone who derives enjoyment from a pint or a short or a cocktail, Incidentally, I really enjoy a cigarette but can live without the alcohol. I don’t ythink that makes me inferior or superior in any way,

That’s very simplistic as it’s obvious that both alcohol and nicotine provide a way of relaxation to those who choose one or the other or both. As for negatives,I would argue that both can be damaging to ones own health . As for others ,Smoking is much maligned for the possible effects of passive smoking but this must now be much reduced with the smoking bans indoors and public places. I would argue that alcohol related costs to others is much the greater whether to health services or the many anti social aspects of drunken behaviour.

Being one of the unfortunate/fortunates and undergoing ongoing treatment I can only express my gratitude to the NHS . The constant call of nature was the first warning sign and led to the diagnosis and various hormone medication. I have had none of the side effects which sounded a bit concerning apart from a few hot flushes which pass within a few minutes. The greatest benefit is the use of a long term catheter which once again has caused me no problems and now able to get a good 8 hours sleep a night and no need to work around public toilets when out and about. Good luck to all who have similar issues and a word of advice to all who have symptoms.Get checked out at the earliest sign ,or even get PSA checked when approaching middle age.

Looking at the turnout a significant number choose not to have any say on policies. This could be because they have absolutely no interest or live in a constituency where they believe that their vote cannot have any bearing on the result. Proportional representation would be more democratic but is not to the liking of the 2 major parties.

It is my opinion that Brexit was never a good idea and that the so called benefits that appealed to some will never be delivered.I don’t see that as bias. The “success” of Brexit is reflected in the demise of the Conservatives and right wingers who campaigned to get it through . Where are they now?

Individuals can make mistakes and can correct them If given the opportunity. Thats democracy

In the interests of the country’s economy and world standing no one should have voted for Brexit and now that it should be apparent to most that immigration and border control was just Farage and Co seeking to influence the Conservative Party then a reversal of policy is needed. When a mistake has been made it’s best to bite the bullet early.

She will now 😄

I think of Lionel Darlows sports shop where I got my first snooker cue and Adidas football boots.and Preston’s chemist where we could buy magnesium ribbon and test tubes and hydrochloride acid and things. Happy Days

It’s a good question. I am sure that I have said that “I hate ......” on a few occasions in my life without actually meaning it certainly as regards people that I have known personally. Dislike would certainly be nearer the mark in a few cases. Like Padders I could apply it to some food (including beetroot) and to some people’s habits,including one of my own.

Chocolate eggs and bunny rabbits are so relevant to the Easter message.