um pahars

Who bought Anders??? He was bought during the period when we didn't have a manager And Delap was only bought a month after Anders, so I wouldn't say he was bought to replace Anders. But well done to Anders, liked him both on and off the pitch, a very nice bloke.

A bit from The Guardian which resonated with me: "cabinet ministers' most precious assets are "their time, their attention and their intelligence", and Fox gave Werritty the unimpeded run of all three. Given the competing demands on a defence secretary involved in two conflicts abroad, to have made a priority of the demands of an old mate is a gross failure of judgment and in itself sufficient grounds, says McTernan, to disqualify Fox for his post." As others above have also said, he has made some gross errors of judgement and has then gone on to make matters worse by being extremely candid with what really has been going on, denying anything to apologising days later, and has been far from open and transparent as promised by Cameron. His position is untenable and the longer he stays in role the more the focus will switch to Cameron. As with Coulson, Cameron is in no way implictated in the initial wrongdoings, but his failure to act and dithering will mean he will become embroiled in the storm. Of course one of the problems is that he's scared of the right wing of his own party, which then makes me start to question his own mettle (like Blair and others before him he appears to be more keen on pandering to others than being his own man and providing the leadership this country needs).

I'll try and find the info regarding fruit at th e Inner Docks (think it was on an Ocean Village history page). Bananas were definitely being brought here in decent numbers pre WWII as there is an article somewhere saying how half of Fyffes fleet was sunk during WWII. I'm sure they were mainly operating out of Manchester, Liverpool and Bristol/Avonmouth, but there was a definite reference to Soton somewhere. Just found one of the links (mentions fruuit in 14/15 but not specifically bananas) http://www.oceanvillagesouthampton.com/about/the-history-of-ocean-village/ Page 50/51 mentions the UK banana trade with reference to Southampton in there as well. http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=dDqYx0j2ipYC&pg=PA52&lpg=PA52&dq=avonmouth+banana+imports&source=bl&ots=QIFgTfiPyg&sig=eAIkX3_7XjSRacUyRFQ5svLkDwA&hl=en&ei=Ap2UTpTCB4y1hAfT-5DaBg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CCQQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=avonmouth%20banana%20imports&f=false

Mandelson (twice), Blunkett (over the passprot furore) and others walked (or were pushed) under Blair and in previous Governments (red and blue) others have been pushed or walked for less. Cameron made a very bold claim upon entering office, including his new foreward on ethics and standards in the revised ministerial code, particularly after the Expenses Scandal, so he has really set himself up here to do something. Problem is as BTF points out, party politics will probably ride roughshod over Government and National Interests (once again dragging down politics in this country).

That's the question that if ever answered (honestly) will tell us all we need to know. What was Werrity doing there and what was he gaining from it? Simple enough, but I just don't think the question will be answered.

A little Google on the issue brings up quite a few articles about it, particularly from when he threw his hat in the ring for the leadership and there were rumours (and denials) about his sexuality. There's also some questioning his marriage. No idea either way, but Adam Boulton seems to have said what many were thinking. That aside, my issue with this one is the apparent cover up and half truths, "there is nothing untoward" and "it was a chance meeting" to a few days later, "Serious mistakes" and "there was contact between the two parties prior to the meeting". All this against Cameron claiming a new standard of transparency and honesty in Government. Then there are obvious questions such as: Was Fox aware that Werrity was touting himself as an advisor? When did Fox know about the business cards (i.e. was it a while before he asked them to be binned)? Why was Werrity following him around? Who paid for Werrity's travel and accomodation costs? If Werrity didn't, then who did people pay for them? What other benefits did Werrity gain from this arrangement (financial or otherwise)? Did Fox gain from these arrangments? Did he mention this connection to his Permanent Secretray upon commencement of his role? What subjects were discussed at meetings where this non security cleared person was present? Why didn't he just engage him as an advisor/assistant, get him security cleared and be done with it? How does this behaviour square with Cameron's claim to be more transparent, open and honest etc in the revised Standards document?

Adam Boulton on SKY this lunchtime with a bloke from the Telegraph and The Mirror just put the cat amongst the pigeons by questioning whether this is a homosexual relationship.

Berths 25+ in the Empress Dock were definitely Fyffes base after they moved from oop north (from Liverpool & even Bristol I think) after the war (I think the banana trade then moved to the Western Docks 101+), but berths 14-16 in The now defucnt Inner Dock definitely handled fruit including bananas and there was even a fruit auction room built alongside the docks.

Have you seen the Samui Taxi Mafia lately???? A return there a couple of years back saw literally every taxi have no meter running and everyone demanding a fixed fee!!!! Managed to negotiate down, but did not find one willing to use the meter. They would all rather leave you standing (knowing that some other tourist would pay the rate). It was still a cheap(ish) fare, but like you felt it wasn't right (I certainly insist on the meter in Bangkok and elsewhere). Ended up using the Songthaews.

Ocean Village is built around Princess Alexandria Dock 1842 (also called the Outer Dock) and as Spy has mentioned they were really last used as a base for Townsend Thoresen and P&O cross channel ferries (started about mid 60s to mid 80s). It was linked to a non tidal dock called the Inner Dock 1851 which was where the new offices, Harbour Lights and that new multi storey car park are nowadays. Both docks were originally mainly used for fruit (hence Banana Wharf bar/restaurant), grain, timber as well as early passenger traffic. There was also a section where coal barges would dock. On the South side of the Outer Dock (where my pad is) there were 4 dry docks which were a hub of maintenance etc. Both these docks were used for the Crimean, First and Second World Wars and the plaques are on the last remains of the warehouse that sit next to the new Tescos (between the coffee shop and the Pink Beauty place) record that the Docks played host to transporting men and equipment on D-Day and the months follwoing. Just remembered this website is always good for docks info: http://www.plimsoll.org/Southampton/TheDocks/EasternDocks/InnerDock/InnerDock1.asp

I agree about the Castle Lane bit!!!! Have a degree of sympathy for the red brick housing (think it's OAP housing) by Tudor House as there was at least an attempt to try and blend it in with regards style wise. You're right in that most of the Castle (mote & Bailey) disappeared quite a while ago, but there was still a bit of a legacy, plus that tower block is just so out of place!!!!

My pet hates with regards planning etc (and not many of them are cash rich). 1) Around by The Duke of Wellington and the Merchants House there are 2 or 3 blocks of awful flats built over the historic vaults and totally at odds with the local area. Why???? 2) More should be made of the Weigh House and the other ruined houses & vaults in the area behind la Regatta (Porters Lane I think) 3) The walls alongside the Bowling Green have been blocked in by some pretty poor flats. That was a pretty recent decision 4) The walls either side of the Bargate. Who agreed to knock them down?? 5) Hannover Buildings and then the Bargate Centre. Who agreed to block in the Town Walls there. 6) Who decided to build that really large tower block (Castle House??) over the remains of the old castle. Any other City would have gone mad for such walls and I can't imagine York knocking down or blocking large parts down. They should have been traded off.

Taxis are cheap by our standards and when they use the meter properly they are dirt cheap!! Problem is that many around the touristy areas start to demand a fixed price, which although still cheap by our standards is a bit naughty. If they don't use the meter, I reckon you'd be paying anything from 300 to 500 baht each way (£5-£9). Loads of people rent scooters (cheap and plentiful), but in my many travels to Thailand I have lost count of the number of tourists I have seen with a Phuket Lovebite (exhaust burn), bandaged up arms, legs and heads. The roads are terrible, pot holes, poor surfaces etc, they become treacherous after a drop of rain, roads can be full of people, chickens, dogs, cows etc, other road users are mental!!!!!! IMHO it's just a recipe for disaster. Much better off getting a hire car and staying safe (seriously until you see people on the wrong side of the road 5 up + chickens on a moped dodging a cow, whilst the water lorry swerves to avoid a pot hole in the pouring rain, you won't believe me). A car is much safer and driving in a car is actually alright, they drive on the left. Just don't hand your passport over (give them a copy if they insist). I also forgot to mention that maybe a trip up to Chieow Laan lake & Khao Sok Park could be on the itenary (have a look at Limestone Lake Tours). Probably my most wonderful experience and I reckon it's about 90 mins north of you. It's a lovely place with some fabulous scenery and wildlife. If you could stay overnight in a rafthouse then you'll really see why it's so special (although at th eprice you're paying for Amari, I doubt you'd want to pay again!!!!)

Maybe Turkish's mate would come up with something else, but I think you're only option for something a bit busier would be a trip in to Ao Nang. Most hotels do a shuttle in to town (or taxis are pretty cheap). Too far to walk and about 15 mins by car. But from memory even Ao Nang is fairly quiet, although there are quite a few restaurants, bars, ATMs and a couple of little markets. Krabi Town is quite a bit further (more like 30 mins+ from your resort).

Here's the webpage, haven't got a clue if it's a personal page or a group page. http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.104616896315459.9093.100003014481280&type=3#!/profile.php?id=100003014481280 BTW I don't do rowing, just like a good barney every now and then (plus I'm sure we'd get on in reali life away from the jousting on the interweb - as long as you don't wear that fcccking beany hat thing I saw in a photo).

LOL. We thought we were going to drown down that way when we stayed at Raillay. Left it late getting back from Ao Nang to Raillay one evening (only way in is via a boat) and with a big storm brewing no one was that fussed about taking us around the headland. Had almost settled for getting a room for the night, when a young lad said he'd do it for double the going rate (£1 each instead of 50p). We took him up on his offer, but halfway through realised we probably shouldn't have. Was the only time I saw the locals put their life jackets on with his mate bailing us out as we got in some choppy waters with forked lightning overhead. Won't mind admitting I though we might not make it, but with the usual Thia laughter we got through. Had the boat lads join us for some beers until it died down a bit and they returned somewhat drunk (saw them later in the holiday though!!).

Yeah, heard of the resort, but never been there. Comes with a very good reputation. Stayed at a resort about half a mile or so south of it (Elements). It's in a very quiet part of Krabi, just a few other hotels around, so will be very relaxing with a great beach (and wonderful sunsets). Easy enough to walk the beach to try out food in other nearby hotels, but otherwise a bit limited. Not much shopping around either (read almost none). Nearest "town" is Ao Nang, about 15 mins taxi ride away which has quite a few restaurants, bars and shops, but being honest it's a bit tacky. OK to pop in for a change of scenery in the evening (poor beach). Krabi Town itself is further south again (30 mins??) and I really enjoyed as it wasn't at all touristy (mainly a stopping off place for Koh Phi Phi & other places). Had a couple of great markets where the locals will happily let you sample their wares without any of the hassles at a more touristy place. There isn't a great deal to see in the town, but you will see how the locals live (particularly in the evening when everyone comes out to wander). As Turkish says, the Tiger Temple is close enough by with stunning views and scenery & caves. When we went it was fairly busy with pilgrims, but was no problem just wandering around by ourselves (cover up as it is a very religious place). I also really enjoyed the Thermal Springs near Klong Tom and a place called Emerald pool (a bit further away). You can do these places by yourself (rent a car and drive on the left), but could also do as a day trip (private or as part of a group). Quite a lot to do inland and a couple of national parks and water falls (depending on season), so would definitely drag myself away from the beach. However, I think the best parts of the area are out to sea with the various little islands, Hongs and beaches. the only problem with this is that they are so beuatiful that they are often swamped with day trippers from Phuket. A day out kayaking and snorkelling aroung Phang Nga, a speedboat journey down to Koh Phi Phi (taking in some other little islands), a trip to Raillay Bay and the Princess Cave, diving at Shark Point, all recommended but expect it to be touristy and busy. I doubt you'll be able to drag yourself away from the pool/beach, the beach massages and the lovely sunsets!!!! Thailand is very switched on for tourists, whether package or independent and it is pretty easy to do whatever you want. Some things may cost you a bit, but generally if you fancy something, then someone will be up for sorting you out!!! Flying direct (via Phuket) or stopping in Bangkok??? as that's a totally different ballgame.

Where/what is the resort called??? Been down that way a few times and have to say I really enjoyed it. Let us know where you are and I'll give you a few tips as some decent things are further south and some north (can make a bit of a difference). Rented a jeep for a few days and did a bit of independent travelling inland to a couple of great places, close by were some thermal springs and the Tiger temple-with monkeys!!, whilst further afield was Chieow Laan Lake and the floating rafthouses-probably best place I have been to in Thailand. As Phil says a trip around Phang Nga bay is a must, but there is a big issue about who you go with and where you go (can get very, very touristy) and the same can be said about heading south to Koh Phi Phi. I did it with John Gray and that was a really decent trip, but think I did it out of Phuket. Some good diving as well, there's a wreck of a recent(ish) passenger catamaran out there and only place I've seen sharks in Thailand.

I've got a fixture list and want to post it on our Club Facebook page and just trying to work out the best way to do it. I've not used Facebook before and just want to put it up there as a resource for people to look up if required through the season. It's quite short so don't mind retyping it up there if necessary and posting up there, just not sure where it would go (as it looks to me that things don't stay topical!!!!). Any ideas??? and thanks for the response. STEVE

Need to upload a small Excel file (fixture list) to a FaceBook account, but haven't got a scooby. Anyone know (and please keep any advice simple, I can just about use a computer!!!!!!!!!). CHEERS

The flats in Ocean Village are terrible, they really should have restricted it townhouses like the one I currently have. Having spent time in Ocean Village, I do think it was a poor use of port land and with ABP always on the look out, I would have no problem being compulsory purchased and the land out back to profitable economic use (assuming they pay me the £720,000 my pad is worth!!!). That said, I do think we could (and should) have made more out of The Walls, the Old Town etc. I know we were up against it after the war, but some of the stuff we did back then (and since) have been so short sighted and really play down our history.

Have to say that there's not much in the opening post I agree with, but that's football for you. Mnay Saints fans have been brought up on "relative success". Those in the 60's saw promotion to the top flight, holding our own and games in Europe. The 70's brought an FA Cup success, Wembley appearances and repromotion (how I fccking hate that Lowe word LOL). the 80's saw semi finals, Europe, runners up in the league (The Daily Express 5-a-side winners LOL). From then up until 2005, whilst not winning anything, we were better placed than 70/80 of the teams in the Football League plying out trade in the top league in the world (the place where every team aspires to be). It's only been the last 5 or so years that we have been "relatively" poor and even then that is somewhat playing down the recent success. So no, I don't see any reason to suggest that we are, or might be, afraid of success. Looking at specifics of the post there's no way we'll get £50m on promotion. I don't think we have the best academy in the country (yes it's great, but there are others that are better out there, after all where did all those England & England U21 players come from, we only produced one of them?). We haven't, nor will we have, the best training facilities out there (they're good and there will be even better, but have a look around and you will see others much better than what is proposed for us). We don't have the best staff (once again they're relatively good and Adkins has done well, but it's a bit of a stretch to suggest they are the best).

And within reason, I'm more than happy for it to stay that way. Upgrade Mayflower Park, look in to access and facilities at Town Quay, Ocean Village and the SWAC Centre and that would be it for me. The Docks are a working environment providing employment and a very big wealth generator for the City, not a playground or a place for a quiet stroll. Plenty of other areas to use with regards leisure and recreation along the other side of the Itchen and Test if you want a river frontage, but for me it will be a sad day when the docks stop working and are turned in to a "theme park".

He really was an absolute shocking PM. It was almost as though the Labour Party realised they would not be winning a fourth election and thought, fcck it he might as well have the job he's always wanted. That said, there was that window when he blinked and perhaps missed his chance of winning a snap election. However, I will give him credit when as Chancellor he took the lead in the first recession and helped to negate its effects on the global economy (but he then should have reined in some of the spending mind!!!). PS Despite being an absolute shocker as PM and signing his death warrant with that on microphome "bigot" jibe, Smooth Talking Dave stil couldn't pull a majority!!

I'm also not convinced it was a good idea and thought they were only going to just about get in to 4 figures with the attendance, but being unsure of its "commercial" worth is somewhat different than having a pop at those who actually gave it a go (in particularl th ccko waving with regards attendances). As for the owners just handing over the money, well as I said on another thread recently (can't remember which one) sometimes it is just as important in a more holistic manner to recognise where the donation came from and, "For it is in giving that we receive".