I have been to Cornwall

and North Devon. I forget, as I struggle with existing in this hurly burly of a metropolis, that England is beautiful. We drove down country lanes, through little villages, hired stripy deckchairs on lovely beaches and admired the often dramatic coastline.

England my England.

Pity I am not english - either through birth or descent. For if I was, I might be tempted to launch into an inspirational song.

When the sun is shining, rural England glows.

Go there. Soon.

Walk on By

'If you see me walking down the street
And I start to cry
Walk on By'


And if you see a wrong, walk on by.


That's the advice from our Mayor, Boris Johnston, to Londoners as we grapple with, what appears to be, a rise in violence in our city.


Every week (sometimes everyday) we are faced with grim realities. People being stabbed, often fatally, in the streets. The carrying of weapons is a routine. Genuine fear is being expressed. What is causing this, largely youth driven, crime wave?


Is it the lack of role models for young people (especially young men)?, is it a reflection of violent popular culture? Is the breakdown of the family? A lack of opportunity? Poor education? A symptom of inner city living? Drugs? A self perpetuating media driven hysteria? A paucity of aspiration? A failure of the criminal justice system?


Yes, it's all of these things. Mostly though it's about adults not taking responsibility. Parents, neighbours, community leaders, teachers.


Me.


But I don't have to take responsibility, the Mayor has told me to walk on by. And I am shamed, because that is what I do.

.