There is a certain type of bush which grew somewhere in the village where I grew up which has pink flowers and a very strong fruity smell. Where I live now whether I turn left out of the door to go to the metro station, or right to go the supermarket, I pass one of these bushes and get a big waft of my childhood.

In case I get too sentimental though, there is a bush at the end of my street, outside the nursery, that smells of dog shit.

Hello

Welcome to my brand spanking new website, which will become one of two things: a witty window into the cultural landscape of the northeast, or a half-hearted exercise in self-indulgence.

Feel free to email me with your heartfelt thanks and appreciation. Do not however, email me with any great ideas. I will not be able to use them for fear that people will say 'hey the best bit on the website is' and it will be your bit. Then I'd have to hate you.