Get rid of church bigots or don't claim to represent the country

I am saddened by the news that the General Synod has failed, by a tiny number, to allow the ordination of women as Bishops.

I am saddened by the news that the General Synod has failed, by a tiny number, to allow the ordination of women as Bishops.

I am not a regular church goer, more of the christening, marriages and burials variety,... [more]

Walk away before town hall becomes a white elephant

I read with some amusement the ramblings of Workington councillor Hilary Harrington who was complaining about the cost of renting or buying Workington Town Hall.

She is clearly aggrieved that Cockermouth Town Council bought their town hall from Allerdale for £5 whereas the cost of Workington Town Council buying the town hall will... [more]

Kirkgate Centre and conservation areas

I have followed the discussions around the planned extension to the Kirkgate Centre with more than a passing interest.

For my first 17 years I lived in the lower reaches of Kirkgate, I attended the school for 6 years and my mother was the last school caretaker of the building.

And for the last two reasons, I actually hate the place.... [more]

November 15: A day that will change policing forever

November 15 2012 will be just like any other day in most people’s lives. It’s a Thursday so I will be teaching for much of it.

However, on that day policing in England Wales will fundamentally change and the damage that change will bring will resonate for years to come.

British policing was founded on the principles of... [more]

Posh boy leaders and plebs

I have no doubt whatsoever that Government Chief Whip, Andrew Mitchell swore and used the word ‘plebs’ during his altercation with police officers guarding the gate of Downing Street.

Why do I know? Because the police officer has no reason to lie and notes were made at the time and Mitchell has every reason to.

Not through any sense... [more]