Centenery today. A truly lovely man, whose writing was an inspiration. I met him lots as a child at the local Cricket ground which he loved and later as a teen in the local Pub. Raises a glass today.

Heard the piece on the Today Programme as I was late for work.

Have v fond memories from childhood – there’s a video of me and my sister somewhere starring* in the school play adaptation of Cider With Rosie.

Mrs North’s birthday is on Midsummer’s day, which always brings to mind his walk to Spain. I must re-read that.

*in the chorus, natch. My precocious schoolfriend Jake played Laurie.

Given the location of my house I had best raise two glasses this evening.

Absolutely loved all his books. A great writer.