The Red Mist - like anyone actually cares…

Having assembled the cross-trainer, which arrived as promised on Friday, it is now beginning to dawn on me:

a) just how unfit I am

b) how hard it is going to be to reverse the damage

c) I seriously underestimated the absurdity of the actual activity

Just opening the instruction booklet was challenging - the first thing that greets the poor, unsuspecting slob (me, on this occasion) is an exploded-view diagram of the contraption, with something approaching 100 components. Thankfully, this wasn’t what is actually in the box. The reality is a much smaller number that even someone with my limited intellect and ability can assemble.

I count the assembly process as my first workout (because I’m making up the rules). I managed a couple of 10-minute sessions over the weekend, too, so I fully expect the pounds to start dropping off any day now. Knackers the back of the legs though.

Unfitness and sloth suddenly seem very attractive. But enough of this giving-uppery. I shall prevail…

I’m happy to report that the Richard Thompson gig on Friday was an absolute triumph. The man is a legend, and having seen him live at least four times, this was easily the best of a very good lot. Particularly good was the rendition of “Hard On Me” from the “Mock Tudor” album - his guitar playing was just stunning. Nice to hear a mixture of old and new material, the new stuff being every bit as distinctive as the old hits. I’d go to see him at every opportunity, he’s that good.

I just hope that the KT Tunstall gig at Liverpool this coming Saturday is as good.