Little Chef

I've been told I'm a really good cook many times. I love food and cooking and have done for years. So now I'm doing a 10 week cookery course where I learn techniques and food from all around the world. It's Italy this week. Maybe one day I'll rub shoulders with Ainsley and punch him right in the crockpot.

Raval in it

If you're ever in Gateshead/Newcastle quayside, go to Raval Indian restaurant. The food is amazing, subtle flavours, menu choice is simple, service superb. A new place to watch. A place with a difference in an old listed building. My girlfriend left a tip, see photo!

On the buses

My girlfriend just passed her driving test. Congratulations.

Black Christmas

A visit to Cambridge a week before Christmas meant going to a party in fancy dress. That's me dressed as a Christmas tree on the right.

Moneygrabbers comeuppance

Well it looks like the unhappiness of broadband customers being fobbed off with poor speeds has resulted in Ofcom getting involved. In 2008 they will have to be more truthful about what speeds you will achieve and if you're not happy with them you can change or back out the plan. Signing a government petition and responding to The Gadget Show campaign must have helped. For more info, see http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7151132.stm

'Go To Sea' OCS

Seeing Ocean Colour Scene last night at the Carling Academy was just amazing (just like my girlfriend's dancing). What a 'proper' awesome band, with a string of superb well written songs over the past 15 years. The Go To Sea track was brilliant, Steve Cradock is a genius guitarist. Catch a train or riverboat and 'go to sea'...them.

Large sausage

I ate a massive sausage at the Christmas market in Manchester at the weekend. My girlfriend was surprised how big it was.