Last night’s Ladies’ Day rehearsal lacked a little something. The words. Not having rehearsed for a week and getting over a severe bout of man ‘flu I was probably the main suspect. However in over thirty years (Thirty years!!) of amateur dramatics I don’t think I can ever remember a time when two weeks before the show goes on doubts are cast and nerves encourage you to look for the lifeboats. BUT this is going to be a great production and I encourage any noble reader to avoid disappointment by calling 01865 820375 for tickets. (Full show details on earlier blogs)

Now I like a laugh and I get sent many jokes by email. Many would get me arrested if I put them in the blog but the following story I thought was great and also clean so I am sharing it with you. It goes like this:

The Pope met with his cardinals to discuss a proposal from Benjamin Netanyahu, the leader of Israel.
"Your Holiness" said one of the Cardinals, "Mr. Netanyahu wants to challenge you to a game of golf to show the friendship and ecumenical spirit shared by the Jewish and Catholic faiths."
The Pope thought is was a good idea, but he had never held a golf club in his hand. "Have we not," he asked "a cardinal who can represent me against the leader of Israel?"
"None that plays golf very well," a cardinal said. "But," he added, "there is a man named Jack Nicklaus, an American golfer who is a devout Catholic. We can offer to make him a cardinal; then ask him to play Benjamin Netanyahu as your personal representative. In addition to showing our spirit of cooperation, we'll also win the match."
Everyone agreed it was a good idea.
The call was made. Of course, Nicklaus was honoured and agreed to play.
The day after the match, Nicklaus reported to the Vatican to inform the Pope of the result. "I have some good news and some bad news, Your Holiness," said the world-class golfer.
"Tell me the good news first, Cardinal Nicklaus," said the Pope.
"Well, Your Holiness, I don't like to brag, but even though I've played some pretty terrific rounds of golf in my life, this was the best I have ever played, by far. I must have been inspired from above. My drives were long and true, my irons were accurate and purposeful and my putting was perfect. With all due respect, my play was truly miraculous."
"There's bad news?" the Pope asked.
Nicklaus sighed. "I lost to Rabbi Woods by three strokes."

Priceless. See you next week.