Non-tennis News

[pabbers]

Transferred from the TT


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-14784515


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-14806312

"Women who enjoy an alcoholic drink in the evening tend to be healthier as they move into old age, research shows."


Wonderful news. :D Unfortunately I started on a week long course of strong antibiotics today and mustn't touch alcohol until 48 hours after taking the last one :( :( :(

[Hawkeye]

Knox and Sollecito cleared of the murder of Meredith Kercher by an appeal judge.

[JAMES4578]

Unfortunately some of the media didn't quite follow the proceedings!

[RoastLamb]

So who did kill Meredith then???

[Hawkeye]

There was someone convicted of her murder.

[cazza99]

The third guy is still in jail.

[RoastLamb]

Is he not appealing also?

[supergran]

It's strange isn't it? Rudy Guedi was convicted because he admitted he was there but said he didn't cut her throat. Feel so sorry for Meredith's parents and family.

[cazza99]

Is he not appealing also?

There is a bit at the bottom - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-15158163

[Sallydaisy]

RIP Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple.
BBC report (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-15193922)

[JAMES4578]

yes, very sad news!

[Hawkeye]

I'm a little surprised at the huge outpouring of grief and have seen him described as a visionary, I'm willing to bet that there's no similar response when the true visionary, Bill Gates, dies.

RIP however, I'm glad his pain is at an end.

[supergran]

I continue to be surprised at the outpouring of grief at the death of someone who is a stranger. It is always sad when someone dies before their time but I resist from tweeting and commenting unless it is someone that I have knowledge of through their work/sport etc.

[lynne]

I thought this was quite amusing.....http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2061490/One-amused-Moment-baroness-89-gives-finger-salute-peer-House-Lords.html

[-J-]

where eagles dare (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-17453779) ;)

[cazza99]

where eagles dare (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-17453779) ;)

I'd love to see an eagle in the wild.

[-J-]

I'd love to see an eagle in the wild.2 today

[cazza99]

2 today

Now that is being greedy :p

[AllyB]

Is that the roof you were turfing the other week?

[-J-]

Is that the roof you were turfing the other week?ye, dont really like the roof not sure it will take

[RoastLamb]

2 today

We have a lot of hawks here because we're right next to the Niagara escarpment. They often swoop into our back garden and take the sparrows off the bird feeder. Once they took a squirrel.

[cazza99]

ye, dont really like the roof not sure it will take

Wow, that was rather a scenic job.

[Sallydaisy]

The Olympic flame is being lit today in Greece - see this (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-18002760)article on the BBC website. It's then taken around Greece for a week before being flown to the UK to start it's 70day tour of our country ahead of the start of the Olympics on 27th July.

[Sallydaisy]

RIP Robin Gibb who has died from cancer - report here (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-18140862) on the BBC.

[traveller7]

sad to hear the passing of Robin Gibb, another star been lit in the sky :(

[RoastLamb]

Not a surprise but still so sad. Three of the Bee Gees gone. The oldest son, Barry, is still alive.

[JAMES4578]

Yes agree,expected really but still very sorry that Robin is now gone. Donna Summer's demise was also very sad.

[RoastLamb]

Don't know if this is news, I guess it is. But tomorrow evening some American dude is going to walk across Niagara Falls on a tightrope and the tv is covering it. Hasn't been done for 100 years. They're expecting a gazillion people to come to NF. I'm staying WELL AWAY.

[pabbers]

And apparently he's already lost, I think it was 3, members of his family who made the same attempt! :sofa:

[RoastLamb]

I don't know if it was 3 but he did lose his great-grandfather to a tightrope walk accident but it wasn't over the Falls.


In 1978, at age 73, Wallenda attempted a walk between the two towers of the ten-story Condado Plaza Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on a wire stretched 37 metres (121 ft) above the pavement, but fell to his death when winds exceeded 48 kilometres per hour (30 miles per hour). The Wallenda family attributes the tragedy to "several misconnected guide ropes along the wire" and not the windy conditions. Wikipedia source

[Sallydaisy]

Higgs boson anybody? Large Hadron Collider?

This (http://cosmiclog.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/07/03/12547980-the-higgs-boson-made-simple#.T_QnHmGIdF4.twitter),apparently, is a simple explanation.

Something to read during the rain delays!

[RoastLamb]

Tom-Kat divorce. Blame is being directed at Scientology.

[rondun]

I loved the press conference - it was like "We've found evidence of a boson in the 1.25 giga electron volt range with an confidence of 4.9 standard deviations"
Wooooooo!
When it's actually apples falling out of trees stuff.
(and another thing invented in Scotland to add to the list ;))

[-J-]

I loved the press conference - it was like "We've found evidence of a boson in the 1.25 giga electron volt range with an confidence of 4.9 standard deviations"
Wooooooo!
When it's actually apples falling out of trees stuff.
(and another thing invented in Scotland to add to the list ;))not called god country particle for nothing ;)

[Sallydaisy]

Awful news from Denver. More on the BBC website. (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-18921492)

At least 12 people have been killed and 38 injured in a shooting at a midnight cinema showing of the new Batman film near the US city of Denver, Colorado. Witnesses said a man wearing a gas mask opened fire after tossing a tear gas canister in the auditorium as movie-goers watched The Dark Knight Rises.

[Linda]

Higgs boson anybody? Large Hadron Collider?

This (http://cosmiclog.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/07/03/12547980-the-higgs-boson-made-simple#.T_QnHmGIdF4.twitter),apparently, is a simple explanation.

Something to read during the rain delays!

Higgs Bosun walked into a church. He was told, 'you can't come in here'. He replied, 'well, you can't have mass without me'.

:getcoat:

[Hawkeye]

: getcoat : without the spaces.

[cazza99]

A link for watching news of the storm in USA - http://www.weather.com/news/weather-hurricanes/sandy-top-five-20121028

[RoastLamb]

Don't need to watch a link, I just need to look out my window. Blowing a very rainy gale at the mo. Only the beginning too. :sad:

[patmoren]

Don't need to watch a link, I just need to look out my window. Blowing a very rainy gale at the mo. Only the beginning too. :sad:
Keepsafe Fiona.

[cazza99]

Don't need to watch a link, I just need to look out my window. Blowing a very rainy gale at the mo. Only the beginning too. :sad:

Take care Fiona :grouphug:

And :grouphug: for all those affected.

[RoastLamb]

I think my American neighbours have it far worse altho' many people in the Toronto/Niagara area have lost power. :eek:

[Sallydaisy]

I think my American neighbours have it far worse altho' many people in the Toronto/Niagara area have lost power. :eek:
The epicentre will be around Buffalo in 24hrs time ... and then it veers North East.
http://www.stormpulse.com/2012-hurricane-season

[Sallydaisy]

Disney have bought Lucas Film ... from CNBC on twitter:

CNBCVerified ‏@CNBC (https://twitter.com/CNBC)BREAKING: Disney buys Lucasfilm for $4B in cash & stock


Will we finally get the Star Wars sequel trilogy???

- Mary Poppins marries Darth Vader
- Muppets in the Labyrinth
- Mickey Mouse for Emperor

Indiana Jones and the Pirates of the Caribbean?
The Battle for Endor: Ewoks 300 Dwarves 7

[Linda]

Hope you are OK, Fiona. :grouphug: I saw yesterday that it was supposed to pass right over Niagara Falls, but today's projection shows it veering off to the NorthEast, so you only catch the edge of it.

[RoastLamb]

Yes, I think we got off lightly in comparison. The wind has died down but it's still raining a lot.

[lynne]

So pleased to hear that Fiona!!!!:thumbup:

[Sallydaisy]

Barack Obama re-elected as President of the United States of America.

He tweeted this simple message:
Barack Obama ‏@BarackObama (https://twitter.com/BarackObama)
Four more years. pic.twitter.com/bAJE6Vom (http://t.co/bAJE6Vom)

Retweeted by Carole Bouchard (https://twitter.com/carole_bouchard)

[RoastLamb]

I am so relieved!!! For American women in particular.

[pabbers]

YAYYYYYYYYY!!! Delighted and relieved about Obama.

[Linda]

I think the whole of Europe is breathing a big sigh of relief. According to polls, in Europe Obama had about 90% support - so it seems strange to us that it was so close in the USA. To me, Romney seemed like another Bush-type nutter who would be keen to start another war in the Middle East. But they seem to see things differently over there. As USA policy has so much influence over the whole world, there is some merit in the suggestion that the whole world should have a vote when choosing the US president. (Obviously I know that will never happen)

[RoastLamb]

Oh Linda, you would not believe the divisiveness over in America. Shocking. I have some friends on FB who are livid about Obama getting back in and being so vocal about it. Women's rights, gay rights, etc. Totally against.

[Linda]

Yeah, some of the USA VBers were staunchly for Romney - I can't understand it at all.

[ljs]

why dont you guys like Romney , cause hes against abortion ?

[Linda]

Because he seems like a warmonger like Bush. We don't want any more wars against Middle East countries (or anyone else, for that matter).

I am against abortion myself in principle, but I recognise that we live in an imperfect world so there may be circumstances where it is the better of two evils, such as when a woman has become pregnant as a result of rape.

[Hawkeye]

:lookingsuspiciouslylikeapoliticsdiscussionsmiley:

[Linda]

:oops:

[ljs]

Because he seems like a warmonger like Bush. We don't want any more wars against Middle East countries (or anyone else, for that matter).

I am against abortion myself in principle, but I recognise that we live in an imperfect world so there may be circumstances where it is the better of two evils, such as when a woman has become pregnant as a result of rape.

fair enough , was just asking

[RoastLamb]

why dont you guys like Romney , cause hes against abortion ?

For many things inc. your example (even tho' I don't condone them). But it was when he referred to foreign policy opponents in the last debate as "the bad guys" like it was some cheesy country and western movie. NO CLUE!

[cazza99]

Not Roger Federer ‏@PseudoFed

#FF - Me - I have made a special motivational poster for you all to help you achieve unimaginable greatness #humble https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A7QYN9HCIAAPxlk.jpg

Not Roger Federer ‏@PseudoFed

I don't have to win today against One Martin so may send a member of staff to play on My behalf #doppelganger

[-J-]

looks like Frankie Dettori has been using the same nightclub as Dammit

[cazza99]

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-20394329) - Chocolate and Nobel Prizes - your theories

[RoastLamb]

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-20394329) - Chocolate and Nobel Prizes - your theories

Totally agree. I must have a very high IQ. :lol:

[Sallydaisy]

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have announced that they're 'expecting' their first child.
BBC article here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-20586343#TWEET415625

Kate is thought to be less than 12 weeks pregnant but the early announcement is believed to have been prompted by the need for her to be in hospital. She's suffering from "hyperemesis gravida" (an extreme form of morning sickness) which can last throughout day/night and through the pregnancy and beyond. It's treated as serious because the amount of vomiting causes dehydration and often requires intravenous fluid replacement and sometimes food too.

[cazza99]

Neil Harman ‏@NeilHarmanTimes

If my maths is correct, the new heir to the throne will arrive around the time of next year's Championships at Wimbledon. Perfect

[RoastLamb]

I feel so very bad for Kate. I never vomited once during both my pregnancies but I did feel nauseated a lot and that was pretty unbearable. :grouphug:

[Elizabeth]

I can sympathise with Kate as with my first child (when living in Canada) I was in and out of hospital for the first four months (more in than out). It was not nice and I felt so ill.

[xenon21]

Awwww huge congratulations Kate an Wills! Poor Kate with te bad morning sickness though

[RoastLamb]

I really hope it's a girl and they name her Diana.

[-J-]

under normal circumstances i wonder if some woman with no job living it up on state benefits having a baby would be greeted so warmly?

[Alis]

I hear that the nurse that took the hoax call to the Duchess's hospital has been found dead. What a really awful thing to happen.

[RoastLamb]

Yes, I just heard. How dreadful.

[JAMES4578]

Yes, really is heartbreaking! She was obviously in a fragile state of mind.

[Sallydaisy]

Duck ahoy!!!
http://news.images.itv.com/image/file/132967/article_dea6153b3bc11671_1355230432_9j-4aaqsk.jpeg


Richard James ‏@richjamesmetro (https://twitter.com/richjamesmetro) BREAKING: THERE IS A MASSIVE YELLOW DUCK FLOATING DOWN THE THAMES http://twitpic.com/bkzvhs (http://t.co/IqvvOWeP)

From the ITN website (http://www.itv.com/news/london/2012-12-11/london-bridge-forced-to-open-for-50-foot-rubber-duck/)

London Tonight is informed its to celebrate the launch of Jackpotjoy.com's new Facebook Fundation, a bursary granting funds and rewards for daft ideas to encourage Brits to have more fun.

[cazza99]

Duck ahoy!!! They had to raise Tower Bridge for this bird.

That's quackers.

[Hawkeye]

Who will the send the bill to?

[Linda]

Yet another school shooting in the USA today :crying:

[RoastLamb]

Yes, just saw that on the tv. It's all over the tv - all the regular programming has stopped. Chilling esp. as I was just reading that interview Andy gave to one of the British media peeps in Miami about the Dunblane incident. So far 28 people have been killed inc. 18 children aged 5-10. Unreal. So close to Christmas as well. :crying:

[JAMES4578]

So hearbreaking with so many incidents! Obviously the gun lobby is powerful in the Us, but they must be taken on as there must be a link with the lax controls!

[VamosVixs]

So tragic! :crying:

[RoastLamb]

Sickened beyond belief that the 23-yr-old Indian girl who was gang-raped on the bus in New Delhi has died. I hope they string the six men up in public and shame them.

[Linda]

What an absolutely terrible thing to have happened :crying:

[Linda]

I've got half my screen on Verdasco v Malisse but on the other half I'm watching the BBC coverage of the helicopter crash in London. It's an absolute miracle that there weren't more casualties.

[Sallydaisy]

First HMV, now Blockbuster ... another company into administration.
:sad:

The helicopter pilot is one of the people who died in the crash this mornnig; t'other un-named as yet.
Disaster can come out of nowhere ...

[pabbers]

I'm really starting to feel guilty about all the online shopping I do.........:shamed:

[cazza99]

First HMV, now Blockbuster ... another company into administration.
:sad:

The helicopter pilot is one of the people who died in the crash this mornnig; t'other un-named as yet.
Disaster can come out of nowhere ...

The pilot had been a helicopter pilot in action scenes for films Die Another Day, Tomb Raider II and Saving Private Ryan.

Apparently residents have been complaining about the crane not being lit up.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-21040410

[pabbers]

The lawyers will have a field day.

[supergran]

Where is the Holiday thread?

[cazza99]

Where is the Holiday thread?

http://www.andymurrayfanforum.com/forums/showthread.php?292-Holiday-chat

[cazza99]

Can't believe what I saw on the news this morning.

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-21459240) - Oscar Pistorius charged with murder

[JAMES4578]

Indeed, heard reports suggesting Oscar thought it was an intruder but still in a bit of a predicament.

[cazza99]

Indeed, heard reports suggesting Oscar thought it was an intruder but still in a bit of a predicament.

Police seemed suprised by that and reported there had been prevoius incidents in the house.

[pabbers]

Yes there's an extensive interview with the police available from Cazza's link and they have no idea where the rumour about an intruder came from but certainly not from them. Not sounding good.

[RoastLamb]

Total shocker! All this gun violence. So sad.

[supergran]

Absolutely shocking.

[cazza99]

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-21475873) - Oscar Pistorius denies Reeva Steenkamp South Africa murder


Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/mediamonkeyblog/2013/feb/15/oscar-pistorius-human-sponge) - Oscar Pistorius: can the 'Human Sponge' help handle the crisis?


Stuart Higgins, has flown to Pretoria to help him to manage the media....................
.................He has also represented several international athletes, swimmers and tennis players, including Andy Murray.

[cazza99]

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-21486066) - Oscar Pistorius case: Reeva Steenkamp TV show defended

[Sallydaisy]

Awww, Richard Briers has passed away.
:sad:

BBC report here. (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-21498077)

[hfwardhouse]

:sad: at that news - he was such a fabulous actor - The Good Life is one of our favourite comedy shows :crying:

[pabbers]

Noooo! End of an era. :crying: :crying: :crying:

I was just thinking about him the other day.

[RoastLamb]

Sad! I loved him. Grew up with The Good Life. He was in Monarch of the Glen as well.

[JAMES4578]

Very sad news as thought Richard was great, was a big fan of The Good Life and other loss from that show as Paul Eddington died some time ago. Of course he also was also well known Ever Decreasing Circles and Monarch of the Glen on TV,whilst also making his mark on stage. Never seen him in the theatre myself though was fortunate to see Felicity Kendall at one point.

[davech]

Awww, Richard Briers has passed away.

:sad: Richard Briers was brilliant.

[Sallydaisy]

There was a programme, reshown over Christmas I think, about the making of The Good Life with lots of out-takes and anecdotes and even that was funny! Hope they show it again.

[Linda]

I was very sad when I saw the news today, I thought Richard Briers was great. :sad:

[cazza99]

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-21502541)- Oscar Pistorius 'shot Reeva Steenkamp in bathroom'

[cazza99]

The BBC correspondant is tweeting during the hearing - https://twitter.com/BBCAndrewH

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-21522673) - Oscar Pistorius detective challenged at bail hearing

[cazza99]

Another twist to the case today.

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-21528631) - Oscar Pistorius detective on attempted murder charges

Being covered live on here - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-21532950

[pabbers]

Sorry - doing my proud Mum bit.

ITV London News won best regional programme of the year at the Royal Television Society Awards and my son's piece was part of their entry at 11mins 20seconds approx (after Boris Johnson!) below. Not sure how long it'll be available for, so sorry if it doesn't work (not that you'll be interested, which is fine).

http://www.itv.com/news/london/story/2013-02-21/itv-news-london-wins-rts-award/

[Golden Lady]

Sorry - doing my proud Mum bit.

ITV London News won best regional programme of the year at the Royal Television Society Awards and my son's piece was part of their entry at 11mins 20seconds approx (after Boris Johnson!) below. Not sure how long it'll be available for, so sorry if it doesn't work (not that you'll be interested, which is fine).

http://www.itv.com/news/london/story/2013-02-21/itv-news-london-wins-rts-award/

Wow Pabbers! So you should be proud, your son gave a brilliant report and it looks pretty scary so I take my hat off to him and other journalists for the very brave job they do in bringing us the news! By the way, you can't half tell he's your son, you look so alike.

[Linda]

You have every reason to be very proud of your son, Pat! :thumbup:

On a completely different topic,

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/cycling/21553680) - Lance Armstrong: US government to sue disgraced cyclist

[cazza99]

Sorry - doing my proud Mum bit.

ITV London News won best regional programme of the year at the Royal Television Society Awards and my son's piece was part of their entry at 11mins 20seconds approx (after Boris Johnson!) below. Not sure how long it'll be available for, so sorry if it doesn't work (not that you'll be interested, which is fine).

http://www.itv.com/news/london/story/2013-02-21/itv-news-london-wins-rts-award/

:clap: :clap:

[supergran]

Brilliant Pat. You must be so proud.....excellent piece of journalism. Well done Paul. He looks like you btw.

[Genbrit]

That is fantastic Pat. You have every right to be proud. :thumbup:

[pabbers]

Brilliant Pat. You must be so proud.....excellent piece of journalism. Well done Paul. He looks like you btw.

Shhhh!!! He wouldn't be a happy bunny! ;)

[Linda]

SI.com (http://tennis.si.com/2013/02/22/roger-federer-oscar-pistorius/) - Roger Federer on Oscar Pistorius

But of course it's mainly Roger Federer on Roger Federer :rolling:

[ljs]

Sorry - doing my proud Mum bit.

ITV London News won best regional programme of the year at the Royal Television Society Awards and my son's piece was part of their entry at 11mins 20seconds approx (after Boris Johnson!) below. Not sure how long it'll be available for, so sorry if it doesn't work (not that you'll be interested, which is fine).

http://www.itv.com/news/london/story/2013-02-21/itv-news-london-wins-rts-award/

You should be proud , hes awesome !!!!!

[RoastLamb]

App. Kate and Will may be having a girl coz she let slip something during a walkabout today. I do hope so.

[Linda]

We have an Argentinian pope. (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-21777494)

[ljs]

are you Catholic Linda , if so what do you think of this new pope ??

[supergran]

I am a Catholic. He is a Jesuit so that's OK. Not sure yet....have to wait and see.

[Linda]

No, I'm an Anglican, but we do still regard him as a bishop so it's of some interest. He's 76 though - I expected them to pick a younger man this time.

[supergran]

SI.com (http://tennis.si.com/2013/02/22/roger-federer-oscar-pistorius/) - Roger Federer on Oscar Pistorius

But of course it's mainly Roger Federer on Roger Federer :rolling:Only just read this. I am astounded at the arrogance of the man when answering the questions. He's a piece of work, isn't he?:rolleyes::rolleyes:

[RoastLamb]

Just heard that Maggie Thatcher died today. Love her or hate her, what a life she had! RIP

[AllyB]

I hated most (if not all) of her policies at the time, but i genuinely believe she was the last true leader this country has had. Every PM since namby-pambies about trying to keep everyone happy, but she had her beliefs and did everything she could to impose them on us.

[hfwardhouse]

She called a spade a spade and wielded it. Agree with Ally - she was a true leader and stood up for what she believed in instead of all the pussy-footing around we get these days.

[pabbers]

I agree - didn't like her policies but she was the last of a true breed of politician that actually stuck to their beliefs - it's all about "image" and popularity these days in fact they're more like celebs than idealists.

[KnightOwl]

Agreed again. I hated pretty much everything she stood for politically, but at least she made it clear what she stood for - right or wrong, she made her views clear and stuck with them, and that shows a strength of character that many politicians of today could learn a lot from (as long as that's all they learn :red devil:)

She's famous for having said that she thought there would never be a woman Prime Minister in her lifetime, and whatever you may think of her political views, you can't but admire her guts and determination to succeed in what is, even today, a male-dominated environment.

Having said that, I have to admit that every time they mention arrangements for her funeral on the news, I can't help remembering comments Frankie Boyle once made about that subject on Mock the Week. I won't post it here (otherwise I might have to ban myself!) but I'm sure Google or You Tube could find it :whistle:

[jeannie13]

I'm sorry but I could not stand the woman. She destroyed many heavy industries & also destroyed the mining industry. she was very condescending when she spoke & was deeply unpopular in Scotland & the north of England. I'm afraid I won't miss her.

[Linda]

I thought she was the best Prime Minister we've ever had - but we're not really meant to be discussing politics on here (it's in the rules, I think). Anyway, one should never speak ill of the dead.

[pabbers]

we're not really meant to be discussing politics on here (it's in the rules, I think).
Yes true but I think if we stick to talking about the person, as most have, rather than discussing the ins and outs of policies, that's probably OK. So if we can all be mindful of that please........

[supergran]

OK...no politics just a comment on Thatcher. I hated her for what she did to industries in the North of England and Scotland.

[RoastLamb]

Well I'm from the north of England and I admired and respected her.

[supergran]

This could really be a very interesting topic but don't see how it can be developed outside of saying either you admired her or loathed her as it's not allowed. What a shame. Having been an adult worker bringing up a family in what was an Industrial town throughout her Ministry I could say a lot.

[KnightOwl]

Anyway, one should never speak ill of the dead.

Nothing to do with Thatcher, just as a general point of interest - why not?

I get the idea of being respectful, and acknowledging the good in someone as well as, potentially, the bad - but I've never understood the whole "never speak ill of the dead" idea. It makes no sense to me.

Just because someone has died, it doesn't change who they were or what they did, does it? Why should my opinion of someone change just because they are no longer alive?

I don't get it...

[Linda]

It's just a matter of respect. Which often seems sadly lacking in the world today.

[supergran]

Nothing to do with Thatcher, just as a general point of interest - why not?

I get the idea of being respectful, and acknowledging the good in someone as well as, potentially, the bad - but I've never understood the whole "never speak ill of the dead" idea. It makes no sense to me.

Just because someone has died, it doesn't change who they were or what they did, does it? Why should my opinion of someone change just because they are no longer alive?

I don't get it...Neither do I? Glad you said it as I was thinking it but was wary of posting.

[jeannie13]

Nothing to do with Thatcher, just as a general point of interest - why not?

I get the idea of being respectful, and acknowledging the good in someone as well as, potentially, the bad - but I've never understood the whole "never speak ill of the dead" idea. It makes no sense to me.

Just because someone has died, it doesn't change who they were or what they did, does it? Why should my opinion of someone change just because they are no longer alive?

I don't get it...

I agree- So do we not speak ill of Hitler or POlpot ? & many more!!

[pabbers]

I agree- So do we not speak ill of Hitler or POlpot ? & many more!!

Was about to say the same but maybe it would risk starting a political argument and then I'd have to tell myself off!

[supergran]

Was about to say the same but maybe it would risk starting a political argument and then I'd have to tell myself off!:lol:

[RoastLamb]

I agree- So do we not speak ill of Hitler or POlpot ? & many more!!

I'm sorry but hardly the same comparison. :lol:

This is an interesting if somewhat biased anti-Thatcher article from the Guardian today. (http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/apr/08/margaret-thatcher-death-etiquette)Seems to reflect many views on here about it being fine to speak ill of the famous dead.

[cazza99]

It's just a matter of respect. Which often seems sadly lacking in the world today.

Well we say bad things about Guy Fawkes. In fact we celebrate with fireworks every year and "burn the guy".

[supergran]

Well we say bad things about Guy Fawkes. In fact we celebrate with fireworks every year and "burn the guy".As a pupil in a Catholic school we were told we shouldn't burn a guy.....We did, of course.

[Linda]

I think I mentioned here at the time of Fireworks Night that our Vicar said we shouldn't be celebrating the times when Catholics and Protestants were killing each other - we need to work for church unity these days - but we could have fireworks as a celebration of All Saints Day.

[Sallydaisy]

Boston. Another day of terror for some poor souls.
:sad:

[Hawkeye]

The main problem I have with modern internet culture is that some people couldn't wait to get photographs of some of the terrible injuries posted online.

[JAMES4578]

Distressing scenes in Boston and another sad event,heartbreaking for all those affected.

[pabbers]

Gosh I hope this doesn't mean the start of another round of terrorism. What is wrong with the world? And that's a rhetorical question.

[Alis]

Well we say bad things about Guy Fawkes. In fact we celebrate with fireworks every year and "burn the guy".

We have bonfires and fireworks but wherever I've lived in Scotland I've never seen a guy burned. Other Scots may have different experiences of course.

[supergran]

Just got home from a surprise 80th birthday party. Had a really lovely time and the birthday boy reacted so well when he came in to our applause and cheers. Old friends were there as well as his grandsons/daughter and extended family. His two daughters had arranged it and he knew nothing about it. One of his grandsons sang to him but can't remember the song but it brought tears to his eyes. We had Tony Bennett, Sinatra, Ella before our ears were shattered by the "music of the young"

[banskogirl]

Aw that sounds lovely SG :thumbup: nothing like a surprise when it goes well!

[cazza99]

BBC new today quote

"The news is that there is no news"

[RoastLamb]

Royal baby on its way? Really hope it's a girl and they call her something wacky like South East Windsor.

[cazza99]

Apparently the surname can be either Mountbatten-Windsor, Wales or Cambridge.

So maybe it will be Baby Wa(i)les. ;)

[RoastLamb]

I think the baby is going to be Prince or Princess of Cambridge but the surname is Wales. Not 100% sure tho'.

[Hawkeye]

I find the BBC's "The world is waiting" headlines intensely annoying.

[ljs]

So much coverage over here in Canada of this baby's arrival too .

Guess cause we are part of the commonwealth , a bit over the top if you ask me .

[hfwardhouse]

Its beyond a joke already. Poor woman!!

[Elizabeth]

It's a boy, so happy for Kate it is all over.

[Linda]

All over? It's just starting!

[cazza99]

Its a boy!!! But you could hardly hear the correspondant who read out the email live on the BBC.

[RoastLamb]

I'm kinda disappointed it's not a girl - not going to lie. I really hoped she was having a Princess. Oh well. Hope the next baby is.

[supergran]

Lovely news....was glued to BBC yesterday! Congratulations to Catherine and William!

[traveller7]

Had a feeling it would be a boy waste of time changing the rules of who gets to succeed first, the next three suceeders to the throne will be men and I bet none of them will be ruling as long as the Queen or Queen Victoria!
I was out all day so didn't have to put up with the pointless hours of coverage of shes in labour, no news yet. I also was in a theatre when announcement was made and as phone had died had no clue that she had had it til I got home at midnight!
I wish ghem well though, hope they get some peace in first few weeks.

[Jan62]

Declaration of interest: I am not a royalist.

I'm pleased for Kate and Wills that mum and baby are both well and a first baby for any couple is (or should be) a time of great joy, but really couldn't stand the completely OTT news coverage last night. They managed to get an hour's special programme on nothing more than the fact that a boy was born in the afternoon. Complete drivel from just about all the newsreaders and assorted "experts" they had dredged up, and I gave up after 10 minutes and switched off. I'm surprised I even gave it 10 minutes, I must be getting old!

There, that's the curmudgeonly republican done :)

[cazza99]

R.I.P. David Frost

[JAMES4578]

Sorry to hear about David's sudden death (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-23920336)

[traveller7]

One of the great broadcasters such a shame

[supergran]

It is sad...seems he collapsed before giving a talk on the Queen Mary. I was also saddened to learn of the death of Seamus Heaney. I love his poems and he always seemed to be a lovely man. These two successful men were born 6 days apart in April 1939. Supergramps was born 16th September 1939. Just thought I'd add that to cheer you up!;):big grin:

[Sallydaisy]

It is sad...seems he collapsed before giving a talk on the Queen Mary. I was also saddened to learn of the death of Seamus Heaney. I love his poems and he always seemed to be a lovely man. These two successful men were born 6 days apart in April 1939. Supergramps was born 16th September 1939. Just thought I'd add that to cheer you up!;):big grin:
RIP Sir David; a great broadcaster.

I thought he was on the Queen Elizabeth though?

[supergran]

Some Queen!! But you're correct as I think Mary is in the US.:big grin:

[RoastLamb]

Sorry to hear about David's sudden death (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-23920336)

He was such a fixture when I was growing up. Hard to see all these great people pass away.

[Linda]

Now David Jacobs has died too! :sad:

[RoastLamb]

Now David Jacobs has died too! :sad:

Don't know who that is.

[cazza99]

Don't know who that is.

He used to host Jukebox Jury"

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-23938128

[RoastLamb]

He used to host Jukebox Jury"

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-23938128

Still don't remember him. I'm glad, tho', it wasn't a typo and she meant Derek Jacobi.

[supergran]

David Jacobs one of the Beeb's finest and loveliest players of good music. His late night show 11 to midnight each Sunday on Radio 2 was a particular favourite of Supergramps and he listened to it every week. It had been running for 16 years and he stopped only four weeks ago. He became well known as one of the original Top of the Pops presenters, then hosted JukeBox Jury and Any Questions on Radio 4. He had a beautiful voice and great taste in music for people who loved singers such as Sinatra, Ella, Mel Torme, Al Martino. Barbra Streisand.... He had liver cancer and also suffered from Parkinsons but listeners were never aware that he was suffering. He will be missed.

[cazza99]

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/video_and_audio/headlines/37327162) - Botched parking attempt leaves car dangling

:shocked:

[patlowe]

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/video_and_audio/headlines/37327162) - Botched parking attempt leaves car dangling

:shocked:

:eek:

[banskogirl]

Well can I say, off course it was a man...............;)

[pabbers]

The mods have decided to delete the political posts above - we had hoped the convo would just die out but seemingly not, despite some of you prefacing your comments with "we know we're not supposed to discuss politics" :rolleyes:

No more please :thanks:

[cazza99]

RIP Pete Burns. 2016 really has become a bad year for celebs.


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3868030/Singer-Pete-Burns-dies-heart-attack-aged-57.html

[exislander]

Another singer from the sixties gone - Bobby Vee.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-37756170

[Caro]

The mods have decided to delete the political posts above - we had hoped the convo would just die out but seemingly not, despite some of you prefacing your comments with "we know we're not supposed to discuss politics" :rolleyes:

No more please :thanks:

I'm not interested in discussing politics and am aware it can cause a lot of bad feeling .... I just wondered if that's why we're not allowed to discuss it on the forum? Or is there another reason?

[pabbers]

I'm not interested in discussing politics and am aware it can cause a lot of bad feeling .... I just wondered if that's why we're not allowed to discuss it on the forum? Or is there another reason?

Yes that's the reason. Same for religion, race etc.

[Teresa]

Well my Romanian rescue dog thinks everybody discriminates against her on the grounds of race and species. They don't give her enough biscuits. She thinks it's very unfair.

[AllyB]

Well my Romanian rescue dog thinks everybody discriminates against her on the grounds of race and species. They don't give her enough biscuits. She thinks it's very unfair.

What a load of paranoid rubbish. It's just that the Hungarian rescue cat is cuter!!

[Caro]

Well my Romanian rescue dog thinks everybody discriminates against her on the grounds of race and species. They don't give her enough biscuits. She thinks it's very unfair.


What a load of paranoid rubbish. It's just that the Hungarian rescue cat is cuter!!

;) :laugh: :laugh:
Personally I am always on the dog's side ....

[Teresa]

;) :laugh: :laugh:
Personally I am always on the dog's side ....


So is the dog..........
The cat on the other paw, is openly discriminatory against dogs, and commits regular and murderous acts of violence against rodents.

[supergran]

I love dogs. We had a much loved Pyrennean Mountain dog but we've also had three cats. I will always support cats as they're affectionate, intelligent animals who have clear ideas who they like and dislike and show it. Dogs tend to like most people. Well ours did, whereas our senior cat could be very fussy.;):lol:

[Teresa]

I am very fond of my cat. The unutterable contempt she displays for human beings makes me laugh. She gives me this withering look that says "I could have done so much better than you". Somehow they manipulate the world, so they persuade the idiot humans to operate completely on their terms. Mine had to go to the vet for her senior cat check. Throughout the consultation and blood test, she kept up this unrelenting tirade of the "f" word. The receptionist thought we were killing her.

Giving the cat a worm pill involves preparing for all out war. Blankets, thick gloves and half the time she still manages to spit it out, draw blood and do a runner. The dog on the other hand is asked to sit and give her paw, and the cheese with the pill in it has been gobbled before she realises she has been had.

[pabbers]

What's the saying? Dogs have masters, cats have slaves :big grin:

[Sallydaisy]

RIP Sir Jimmy Young.

[Teresa]

Note this is in no way political, but it did make me laugh.

http://www.freedomthirtyfiveblog.com/kj4tv8dlagreat/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/16-08-financial-advice-dog-bonds-tennis-balls.jpg

[anor]

Yes, brightened up my day.

[cazza99]

R.I.P. Leonard Cohen

[jagmad]

Note this is in no way political, but it did make me laugh.

http://www.freedomthirtyfiveblog.com/kj4tv8dlagreat/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/16-08-financial-advice-dog-bonds-tennis-balls.jpg

Especially Andy Murray one's ;)

[Teresa]

Especially Andy Murray one's ;)

That's what made me laugh:-)

[Sallydaisy]

RIP Robert Vaughn.
Last of the Magnificent Seven to bite the dust ... and ex-Man from UNCLE.

[RoastLamb]

RIP Robert Vaughn.
Last of the Magnificent Seven to bite the dust ... and ex-Man from UNCLE.

Loved him! :crying: He was great in Hustle too but I remember him most from Man From Uncle.

[RoastLamb]

R.I.P. Leonard Cohen

Possibly the most famous Canadian person ever. I saw KD Lang sing Hallelujah at the Van. Olympics in 2010 and I got goosebumps. Beautiful.

[Sallydaisy]

R.I.P. Rick Parfitt of Status Quo.
I think that will have messed up the status quo for the band ...
:flowers:

[Hawkeye]

2016 strikes again.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-38432862

[Alis]

Wow - that is a surprise.

[Sallydaisy]

George Michael, RIP.

[cazza99]

RIP George Michael. Only 53 years old.

[AllyB]

Next year should be better, there can't be many celebs left!

[JAMES4578]

2016 bit of a shocking year,certainly sad with the passing of George Michael and Rick Parfitt RIP. George Michael gone well before his time, though he was seriously ill in 2011. Manager has given cause of death as heart failure.

[banskogirl]

Rick Parfitt and George Michael :shocked:

[AllyB]

Yet again with a celeb dying the media that spent years villifying them to fill the front pages are very quick to forget the undesirable aspects of their lives.

[AllyB]

Now Liz Smith of Vicar of Dibley and Royle Family fame joins the list

[Stell]

George Michael, Liz Smith and now Richard Adams.

[Hawkeye]

And now Carrie Fisher.

[Jan]

:crying:
Went to see Rogue One this afternoon.

[pabbers]

:crying:
Went to see Rogue One this afternoon.

Went last night :shocked:

[JAMES4578]

Thought Carrie might pull through,very sad(seen her on Graham Norton show recently) and Debbie Reynolds is still around. Whilst Liz Smith and Richard Adams in advanced years obviously great pity we've now lost them as well.

[banskogirl]

Shocked about Carrie Fisher even though she had been ill!

Remember queuing in Belfast to see the first ever Star Wars in 1977.

[JAMES4578]

Shocker as Debbie Reynolds (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-38455777) now passes away after suspected stroke,imagine there must be some link with the heartbreak of daughter Carrie- R.I.P. both of them

[lovetennis]

So sad about Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher. Reunited but so sad for their family

[angiebabez]

Awful just awful the amount of deaths this year! And im not just talking about famous ones..ive heard of 2 alone this month both fairly young folk. Of all the well known ones George Michaels has affected me the most! Him & Andrew Ridgely were my absolute teenage idols & followed George throughout his solo career. So very sad :sad:

[RoastLamb]

What a shocking week. George Michael - I still can't believe this one. Saw him three times inc. at Wembley Arena in March '91 when Elton John came on stage to sing Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me. Such a great voice and talent. Wasted the last few years tho' as I think he became very bored with it all.

Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds are even more shocking. So sad. :crying:

[cazza99]

The 2016 bad news for pop artists has continued into 2017.

RIP Peter Sarstedt http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-38548507

[supergran]

The 2016 bad news for pop artists has continued into 2017.

RIP Peter Sarstedt http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-38548507

It's reported that he died of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and had had this condition for six years. PSP is what supergramps has been diagnosed with.

[Sallydaisy]

RIP Sir John Hurt ... such a talented actor.
:sad:
He had pancreatic cancer, diagnosed in 2015.

[banskogirl]

Loved his voice and how he narrated The Day We Won Wimbledon!

[RoastLamb]

Elephant Man! Sigh. Mary Tyler Moore too. :crying:

[cazza99]

John Noakes has died aged 83.

[AllyB]

I believe he's had a long battle with Alzheimer's so maybe a blessing. Hopefully reunited with Shep at long last

[Teresa]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4568000/The-100-super-rich-stars-700million-tax-relief-scheme.html?login&param_code=AQCEhQZMMZZwUzEvClAFKK0RUZnyIO7PSrxcKfv UZAkXDgDmbaI2UvwJL_NFA-6rFU7Jh692qJ3_GzqtgUKiRy61YqyjbKyAN26tmdxOnU7g25Di P5W-4f4ZysrHp1qiSrhKGRplygFfy5cXpk8v9-yzi3C9pjanxybHjJFadaqwE7LM_Sm4WheVOEU2Zotml39BZlLz QYOkGFCvbbRset5ZKERFW6QmayDPoXs9RoAfDGxWIVQ3_Chy0e wkGp5llrT8C_SWR8krw8QdrZ8ILqOCTguCyaE791CGPUakj9Zy x9iqkzmncggYKrDVcUiintsjFmSw5dnGE_7Y6p_8j4dAANA1I5 0T8JNXfz96Tgg60g&param__host=www.dailymail.co.uk&param_hideMasthead=&param_hideFooter=&param_geolocation=gb&base_fe_url=http%3A%2F%2Fdailymail.co.uk%2F&validation_fe_uri=%2Fregistration%2Fp%2Fapi%2Ffiel d%2Fvalidation%2F&check_user_fe_uri=registration%2Fp%2Fapi%2Fuser%2F user_check%2F&isMobile=false#readerCommentsCommand-message-field

List of sportspeople involved in a tax avoidance scheme. Is anyone surprised that our man is conspicuous by his absence? Good on him. And David Beckham wonders why he has been passed over for a knighthood.............

[cazza99]

Barry Norman RIP

http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-40468411

[Stell]

Just learnt of Sir Bruce Forsyth's death. A good age and he hadn't been well for some time.

[RoastLamb]

I'm still not over Terry Wogan. :crying: :crying: :crying:

[karanga]

Very sad news about Brucie but he hasn't been well for a long time. :crying:

What an amazing career he has had starting in 1939.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruce_Forsyth

Didn't he do well. RIP Brucie. :flowers:

[exislander]

RIP Brian Aldiss - one of the classic SF writers.

[Stell]

Just read, on the BBC website, about the Duchess of Cambridge being pregnant again.

[Stell]

Scotland has been voted the most beautiful country in the world by Rough Guides. Canada came second and New Zealand came third. England came 7th.

[RoastLamb]

I agree with that. Scotland is amazing! And I love Canada too. Am going to NZ next summer so will see for myself.

Congrats to Will and Kate! I'm amazed she's going for a third considering how ill she gets. I would have stopped at one. She is one strong lady!

[JerryD]

Perhaps by people who have been to the Cairngorms, one of the most beautiful places on earth :)

[Alis]

The west coast isn't bad either!

[JerryD]

The west coast isn't bad either!

Not got there yet. keep going back to the Cairngorms. Planned mull and around it for next year :)

[harriet]

Iona, and Shetland, Iona would be my Desert Island and i wouldn't want to be rescued either

[Teresa]

Iona, and Shetland, Iona would be my Desert Island and i wouldn't want to be rescued either

I think Shetland is my favourite. The cliffs at Eshaness are my top favourite. Was also fortunate enough to get to St Kilda. Like most of the Islands I have visited.

[RosieBear]

I'm just watching Paul Brand's excellent reporting about the abuse of MPs on the ITV news at 10pm :bravo:

[RosieBear]

Today is Battle of Britain day. We remember all the heroes and everything they did 77 years ago for our freedom. 2,937 air crew took part; GB (2,342), Poland (145), Czechoslovakia (88), Canada (112), Ireland (10), USA (9), Australia (32), Jamaica (1), NZ (127), Barbados (1), France (13), Belgium (28), SA (25) and South Rhodesia (3).

Thank you.

[Sallydaisy]

Terror attack in West London: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-41278545

[Stell]

Just learnt of Liz Dawn's death. She had been ill for quite a few years.

[RoastLamb]

Just learnt of Liz Dawn's death. She had been ill for quite a few years.

She was great!!! I dread the day Rita goes.

[Stell]

Yesterday, it was Liz Dawn and Tony Booth, today it's Veronica Bingham, 7th Countess of Lucan.

[Stell]

Now, Hugh Hefner is dead.

[Stell]

I've read about Laura Mesi, an Italian woman, who married herself in a ten thousand Euro (£8,700) wedding and then went on honeymoon to Egypt by herself. A bit weird.