Thursday 31 December 2009

Happy New Year my wonderful friends. Heading back to London, after having dropped my Son in Cardiff, So let me know your plans for tonight?

Wednesday 30 December 2009

Charles just had his London Christmas morning, then lunch at Gordon Ramsay's Maze, a Christmas Carol at the Theatre and Dinner with Uncle.

Tuesday 29 December 2009

Tea in Browns on Albermale street thanks to Ponni Arumugam. Painting in Camden Art Centre and a stay in a 5 Star Hotel thanks to Robin Das.
Day 1 with Charles - Walk in Hyde Park, Bratwurst for lunch, Avatar in Imax 3D at Leicester Square Odeon and Dinner with Robin and Gill Das.

Monday 28 December 2009

My Son, Charles Atherton-Laurie, is in London until 31st December 2009. If any friends want to meet up with him, give me a call.

Sunday 27 December 2009

Boxing Day - Nutcracker at the ENO with Anja Breit, the film "9" in Leicester Square with Tamara Thomas - both in awe & made the experiences
Christmas Day-Proud of myself, walked most of the way (with the aid of my Wheelchair) to spend the day with Amanda Baker, films, food & wine
Christmas Eve - Anja Briet selected the finest wines, prepared Fresh Fois Gras, Duck & cheeses. Provided amazing company in Bart and Robbina

Thursday 24 December 2009

Can't keep a good man down. So my annual Christmas Eve tradition of drinking Champagne at Harvey Nicholls while staff get my food continues

Wednesday 23 December 2009

Great Christmas party at the Frontline Club, thanks to Amanda Baker and the company of Flynn Earl Jones and Jamila Jennings-Grant.
The wonderful and beautiful Marigold Nunes, touched me (in more ways than one) by battling the cold to share a festive drink.
Christmas Presents exchange, with the lovely Ponni Arumugam, toasting ourselves with champagne in The Grosvenor Hotel.

Tuesday 22 December 2009

Carol Service in St. Martin in the Fields, Dinner in St. Alban Restaurant & company of Robin Das, Gill Wheeler, John Odell and Matt - Bliss.

Monday 21 December 2009

Had a lovely evening with Vicki Peaple and an equally entertaining lunch with Razia Ahmed today bon voyage to both on their Christmas trips.

Sunday 20 December 2009

Christmas definitely begun - stunning Carol Service in St. Lukes Church, Chelsea courtesey of Georgina Sherrington & in aid of Tiny Tickers

Friday 18 December 2009

Enjoyed the rough cut of the film "King Kennedy" at Soho House and wishes the producer Howard Goldstein all the best in getting distribution
The ingenuity of Ciara Morrin to get hold of me at The National Theatre before the performance of "Nation" was inspired - thanks to staff.

Thursday 17 December 2009

I am unreachable by phone or email. Unfortunately my iPhone is damaged and I have lost all new contacts for the past 9 months.

Wednesday 16 December 2009

Anja Breit (being German) knows how to bring Christmas with her wherever she goes. Film, A Christmas Carol in 3D was a great way to start.
Power breakfast with Emma Williams rekindled the soul & got us primed to work together in 2010. Her Activism and my Pragmatism-good combo
Enjoyed the Christmas Party River Thames cruise courtesey of Alison Gaumont and then drinks with Ponni Arumugam and Dirk van der Velden.
Power breakfast with Emma Williams rekindled the soul & got us primed to work together in 2010. Her Activism and my Pragmatism-good combo.

Monday 14 December 2009

Suraya Gaeta is disapponted at the film "Where the Wild Things Are" not least because the Porn title hid an adaptation of a children's book

Saturday 12 December 2009

Was great to see the film "Paranormal Activity" with Ciara Morrin not least because she was so scared we had to drink till dawn.

Wednesday 9 December 2009

Georgina Ashdown after 6 hours has reinstated my faith in the future of British talent. A student with compassion, vision and heart.
The Ritzy Cinema - a blind wine tasting before screening the film "Bottle Shocked" with Ponni Arumugam and Anja Briet (our secret sommelier)

Tuesday 8 December 2009

Showstoppers: The Improvised Musical at The Drill Hall is a phenomenal night out & a must see. Another big thank you to Christopher Lambert

Sunday 6 December 2009

Saddened to miss Liz Block's party Sunday, but made up for it by seeing Alison Moyet at the Royal Festival Hall, thanks to Marea O'Sullivan.

Saturday 5 December 2009

Is off to see his ten year old Son Charles in Cardiff for the weekend thanks to the assistance of Lisa Evans. Gordon Brown owes her big time

Wednesday 2 December 2009

Hopes the film interview he gave to DD Productions about his Chronic Fatigue Syndromes helps in raising awareness of the condition in the UK

Monday 30 November 2009

Had an amazing time with wonderful friends last night. Always blown away by how great everbody gets on with each other. Thanks for the love

Sunday 29 November 2009

Grateful to Jules at The Ritzy Cinema for space for drinks party on 30th November 18:00-21:00, Looking forward to seeing friends old & new.

Saturday 28 November 2009

Was dissapointed by the curation of the Ed Ruscha - Fifty Years of Painting at the Hayward Gallery. But enjoyed the art nonetheless.

Friday 27 November 2009

Impressed with student films about Peckham at Multiplex. Subsequent conversations with Caroline Heatlie and Ciara Morrin highly enlightening

Thursday 26 November 2009

Enjoyed the Tennis at the O2 last night, but not the fact that Nadal was beaten. Great seats thanks to the amazing Ponni Arumugam.

Wednesday 25 November 2009

The film "White Ribbon" is well deserving of it's Palme d'Or and encapsulates small town living beautifully.Glad to share with Amanda Baker

Monday 23 November 2009

Loved the ending of the Coen's Brother latest offering "A Serious Man" not least because the cinema audience he was with, just didn't get it

Sunday 22 November 2009

Had a wonderful Saturday with the beautiful Suraya Gaeta. David Hare's "The Power of Yes" at the National Theatre and then on for drinks.

Saturday 21 November 2009

Dear friend, Reginald D Hunter at the Soho Theatre, Drinks at the Groucho Club and met a performance artist and Balllerina - I love London.

Thursday 19 November 2009

Had an interesting meeting with Soho Estates and a potential new business venture. Conemplating our next move.

Monday 16 November 2009

Enjoyed "Taking Woodstock" on Saturday, Ang Lee's light, sweet, comical look of the Festival was reminiscent of his film The Ice Storm.

Saturday 14 November 2009

Appreciated the sane conversation of Allison Ouvery & Dirk van der Velden after one Charity asked why I need to see my Son once a month???

Friday 13 November 2009

Appreciated Christopher Lambert's company and Dinner at The Famous Curry Bazaar in Bricklane last night.

Thursday 12 November 2009

Enjoyed Ponni Arumugam's company at the Anish Kapoor exhibition at the Royal Academy and Fortnum & Masons's Wine Bar - many thanks.

Wednesday 11 November 2009

Demands a Karina Cornell night every week. Sparkling wine, conversation, designer dresses & views over the Thames. What more could one want.

Tuesday 10 November 2009

If Third Sector Workers spent more time doing work than complaining about how busy they are, they'd find themselves with nothing to do.

Friday 6 November 2009

Fireworks in Brockwell Park, Champagne, excellent Schnapps, great views of London and wonderful company, courtesey of Anja Breit - thank you

Wednesday 4 November 2009

Thanks Suraya Gaeta & Nuria for the threesome ..... drinking party on the Southbank this evening. Men really don't have a chance, do they?

Wednesday 28 October 2009

Thoroughly enjoyed Annie Get Your Gun at the Young Vic tonight thanks to Anja Breit and Bart. Still tapping toes!!
Hopes John Odell and the wonderful Caroline Heatlie enjoy their sexploits at the Science Museum. And thanks Caroline for sharing today!

Monday 26 October 2009

Saw a recorded version of QuestionTime on the Weekend & was appalled by the bias the program displayed. Nick Griffin came away as the victim

Thursday 22 October 2009

Social Worker, Joanne Moore, has reached a level of incompetence unequalled in human history. Four months and still nothing accomplished.

Saturday 17 October 2009

Enjoyed Lee-Ann Marchants company seeing "Pop Art" at Tate Modern and the stunning "Speaking in Tongues" at The Duke of York Theatre-Thanks!

Thursday 15 October 2009

I now have no phone reception. Please contact me through face book as I can't pick up email either. Well done Social Services & Benefits.
One Support visited. Another Government Initiative, another bout of form filling, another waste of time. Save the taxpayer - fire them all.

Tuesday 13 October 2009

What a joy to see friends Gemski & Niall McDevitt perform on stage at The NT in a tribute to Ken Campbell whilst sat next to Sylvester McCoy

Saturday 10 October 2009

Was astounded to discover that an open STANDARD return train ticket from London to Cardiff now costs £176.00!!!!

Friday 9 October 2009

No Heating for past 3 days, No hot water for next 7, No Careworker arrived Today (that makes one visit in 3 weeks) - No Joke!

Wednesday 7 October 2009

Is in debt to Carole Stone for her generosity & Hospitality at BAFTA Wednesday Night. Let's hope Andrew Marr & John Humphries cover my story

Tuesday 6 October 2009

My job in the then DHSS as an LO2 is now being done by 10 people - Call Operator, Process Clerk, Special Payments, Missing Payments etc.

Monday 5 October 2009

More administrative cock-ups by Lambeth Social Services have resulted in no food being delivered today. The second time I've had to starve.

Sunday 4 October 2009

Owes Liz Block for a wonderful afternoon on Saturday, Beers, "Fish Tank" in Ritzy Cinema and a box of Twinnings Lady Grey Tea - human again

Saturday 3 October 2009

Thanks the lovely Karina Cornell for lunch on Friday. The first restaurant meal in a 100 days. Real food and nectar to my tastebuds. Bliss!

Thursday 1 October 2009

Another day being let down by people who are paid to care. Can't even organise transport to the hospital now. Welcome to 3rd World Britain.

Tuesday 29 September 2009

Now apparently there is a good black market for sink & bath plugs & therefore Lambeth Council doesn't provide them-no way of washing up then

Monday 28 September 2009

A day of stupid call centre folk, welfare advisers that couldn't find my address & an hour of fillling forms just to be filed and never seen
Had an Amazing Sunday with Suraya Gaeta, Drinks at Tate Modern, Boat on the River, Turner at Tate Britain and Shakespeare at The Globe.
Thanks the Portugese Woman who wouldn't let the number 59 Bus leave until passengers with pushchairs in the Wheelchair bay folded them.

Friday 25 September 2009

Can't thank Amanda Baker & Reginal D Hunter enough, for wheeling me up and down Brixton Hill to see The Soloist in the Ritzy Cinema.
Wants to offer great thanks to Lilly the catering assistant and Linda from Patientline for their compassion whilst he was in hospital.

Thursday 24 September 2009

Is living the Orwellian nightmare. Processes designed to produce no outcome but just exhaust the public to acquiesence. Welcome to 1984.

Tuesday 22 September 2009

Our film Colour Blind is premiering at the BUFF for free tickets visit http://ping.fm/gLJdt (just ignore the spelling)

Monday 21 September 2009

Is over the moon to have touched base with Amanda Baler but getting very frustrated at his intermittent Internet access.

Wednesday 16 September 2009

It's somewhat ironic that in June St. Thomas' was used as a case study in discharge in June 2009 http://ping.fm/4BuOe

Tuesday 15 September 2009

St. Thomas's Hospital Discharge Manager, Jane Chester, says I leave on Monday, no, Wednesday, no, Oh sod it I'll take a couple of days leave

Sunday 13 September 2009

Had a great view of The Thames Festival fireworks display from his hospital ward window. Just wished his Son could have been here too.

Friday 11 September 2009

The nightmare continues. Administrators are now scared to even answer emails,insisting things are face-to-face so nothing is written down.
Was saved from the nightmare of dealing with the Hospital for a day. A suite in The Plaza and great company thanks to Lisa Evans.

Wednesday 9 September 2009

Is still waiting in limbo to see what happens next about his discharge from St. Thomas' Hospital - 74 days and counting....

Monday 7 September 2009

Now the NHS expect Nurses to loan patients their mobile phones to make 0845 calls to the DWP Benefit line as it costs them to much money.

Thursday 3 September 2009

The Disaster of The Apple Laptop Stolen from St. Thomas' Hospital

Firstly, let me say if anyone comes across a silver Apple MacPro 17" Screen Laptop which is clearly mine (check the data - films, folders, images etc.) please get in touch as there is a cash reward of £300 if it's returned with all its data all there.

To steal from someone in Hospital has to be the lowest of the low.

To steal from someone in hospital, whose homeless, wheelchair bound, been there for months and whose only connection with the outside world and reason to exist was supported by his computer is good reason to re-instate the death penatly.

What's worse is apparently the thief was known to Hospital staff. Came onto the ward drunk, claiming he had come to visit a patient (whom I knew) who had been discharged and rather than being escorted away was allowed to sit at the nurse's station before entering my bed area.

The patient opposite my bed watched as the theif casually unplugged the mains lead from the wall, disconnected my dongle and left it on the table, placed the Laptop under his arm and walked out, unobstructed.

This took place in broad daylight, on Tuesday 1st September 2009 (I had thought this was going to be the start of a good month) in a busy ward, with 5 other patients around and nursing and catering staff constantly in and out.

Ironically, I had been downstairs using the computers in the KIC (Knowledge Information Centre) as my dongle had run out of cash.

The Police (who have yet to send an investigating officer) were called, as too were the Hospital Security but neither have has yet done anything.

The onsite Hospital Policeman was on holiday and nobody was covering for him.

The biggest irony of all though was that I spilled water on the keyboard a few months ago taking out the most of the keyboard so to a thief the product is absolutely valueless.

But the information contained on it to me is of course priceless.

So, again, if anybody knows the whereabouts of the machine and can return it with my data still in tact, please do so, I'm only interested in it's return not in prosecuting and the money you'll get as a reward will be more than you can sell it for.

Here's Hoping.

Tuesday 1 September 2009

Some C**t has just stolen my laptop from my hospital bed. Suicidal!!!!
Waiting to hear how our film Colour Blind has done in the UK's Film Festivals.

Saturday 29 August 2009

Is still in shock after being abandoned & stranded by Amanda P, thereby losing his opportunity for 24 hours of freedom from the hospital
Is dissapointed that admin once again screwed an opportunity. Should have had a 24 hour furlow but it wasn't written up in my notes. Ahhhh!

Thursday 27 August 2009

Hospital Social Workers inform me my case is gradually being passed up the hierarchy now with Assistant Director - decision next week?

Wednesday 26 August 2009

No surprise, Social Services failed to meet their own imposed deadline and have not delivered on their promise to give me an outcome today.

Tuesday 25 August 2009

Wonders if anyone saw Channel 4's "Benefit Busters" last Thursday night? Clearly "A Thousand Voices for a Broken System" is well timed.

Monday 24 August 2009

And the saga continues. Social Services failed to get papers to today's NHS Board meeting on time. So still no idea where or when I'm going

Sunday 23 August 2009

Can't thank his friends enough for a Fabulous day out of the Hospital. Hayward Gallery, lunch on the Thames and debates until late at night.

Friday 21 August 2009

The Hospital feels like Edinburgh today. a surgery porter who writes comedy & the patient who costume designs for High School Musical 2.

Thursday 20 August 2009

One good thing about being in Hospital is being able to catch up on DVD's. Just completed watching the entire 7 Seasons of The West Wing.

Wednesday 19 August 2009

Why is it, the most complicated meetings the hospital discharge staff want are always when I am unable to talk & exhausted from my CFS?

Tuesday 18 August 2009

And as if I'm not having enough problems my Mother's Residential Home called to tell me her healths in decline...What next?
And the struggle continues with my temporary Social Worker giving misinformation to a Benevolent Fund who were about to clear my Storage fee

Monday 17 August 2009

Into the 7 circles of Hell. Spoken to 6 people from 6 different departments and no-one knows what the others do - enough to drive you mad.
Having got to be seen. I began asking questions that everyboy in Hospital told me they couldn't answer & I needed to ask here - Not The Case
Ambulance transport booked for 09:00 to get me to Brixton for a 10:30 appointment at the Housing Office. 10:20 now and still at St. Thomas'
Is waiting in one waiting room to be trasnported to another waiting room to wait for who knows what...Godot???

Saturday 15 August 2009

Had the best night since being in Hospital. Managed to wheel myself to the RFH to meet up with Cristina & Toby Keech & drank Champagne.
been overwhelmed by the support of people he hasn't seen for years. Mendora Ogbogbo was a huge surprise at hospital last night - many thanks

Friday 14 August 2009

Spent most of the day helping a friend out with Bailiff issues. She's vulnerable & there's no system to protect her from their lies/threats

Wednesday 12 August 2009

Another day of disasters at St. Thomas' Hospital further compounded by the fact the main entrance is closed for a month for refurbishment.

Tuesday 11 August 2009

Is going to Blog his day in detail later. In the meantime wants to thank the amazing & consistent support he's received from Marion Giesler

Monday 10 August 2009

Thanks Emmanuel Anyiam-Osigwe, director of the London Urban Film Festival for coming to Hospital to collect the DVD of the film Colour Blind
Is in debt to Dirk Van der Velden for his swift actions in producing a DVD copy of Colour Blind to submit to the London Urban Film Festival.
New week, new consultant. Hospital like the Marie Celeste. I feel dark clouds gathering and fights brewing.

Sunday 9 August 2009

Is working on "a Thousand Voices for a broken system" and hoping a journalist will pick up the story about benefit failures before he leaves hospital.

Friday 7 August 2009

Is stuck in hospital over the weekend. If you're around please drop by and share a bottle, especially if you've not been. Be great to see you
is being told that he may have to move to Norwood - someone bring me a gun and no its not in London as we know it.

Thursday 6 August 2009

Having already had 5 discharge dates, this one for next Tuesday is not looking likely, with a new Social worker starting process from scratch

Wednesday 5 August 2009

Anyone you know have had problems with the Welfare system in Britain & would like to be in the film "A Thousand Voices for a Broken System"?

Tuesday 4 August 2009

Had an amazing time with Patricia and Suraya watching their Lambadas as the sun went down over Waterloo. Thank you ladies for sharing.
Is hoping that his new advocate will take over his fight with the Social Services, DWP, Discharge Co-ordinators and many other brick walls.

Monday 3 August 2009

And as if by magic "A thousand voices for a broken system" will higlight exactly this point to the Labour Government http://ping.fm/izQPd

Sunday 2 August 2009

is back in his hospital bed and developing a film idea entitled "A Thousand Voices for a Broken System" people failed by the welfare system.
Thanks, Daphna, Dirk, Palash & Guest, Cayman, Razia, Nazia, John, Vyvian, Colin, Jaffa, Karina and Tim for making it such a great afternoon.
is pleased that regardless of the fact that he is stuck in St. Thomas hospital and wheelchair bound he can still throw a great summer party.
was surprised to discover the Nurses on his ward were following his blog. But wishes this shift, all appreciation for all their hard work.

Saturday 1 August 2009

Is really looking forward to meeting old friends at St. Thomas' Hospital fountain garden tomorrow between 15:00 - 17:00 - come if you can?
Is still reeling at the apparent mental break down of one of his visitors last night. And is concerned about how best to proceed?

Friday 31 July 2009

adored the fact that Caroline Heatlie continued her bondage theme and secreted a whip in her handbag to bring to the hospital yesterday.

Wednesday 29 July 2009

loves his friends but especial thanks today go to Ponni Arumugam, Julie Dobson & David Williams for their impromptu embankment drinks party.
Colourful radio interview with Henry Bonsu and JuJu about homelessness - almost prophetic http://ping.fm/eUEUl and http://ping.fm/cULJe
Is completly exhausted from chasing people who are supposed to be helping him. Benefits, Social Workers, Advocates etc.

Tuesday 28 July 2009

spent the morning being interviewed for a documentary film called "Sacred Cinema" due out 2010. Nice to be around sane people for a change.
Does anyone know someone who works at the Apple Store in Regent Street who could drop by St. Thomas' Hospital to help me out with sync prob.

Monday 27 July 2009

has finally got his own wheels and can now get around St. Thomas's Hospital in a Wheelchair. Now the fight with the system can really begin.
believes if there is a God he really must have pissed him off. Not only has iPhone started doing strange things, but my computer & Mobileme

Sunday 26 July 2009

has spent the entire day researching the benefit systems in the UK and discovered if your ill in Great Britain today, you're screwed.

Saturday 25 July 2009

the film Colour Blind (2009) is finally posted to IMDb http://ping.fm/o6RTF wait a few days for all details to display.
Appreciates the get well phone call from Wil Johnson this morning and wishes him well with his upcoming film and theatre projects.

Friday 24 July 2009

Is losing the fight today. His nemesis managed to dupe him yet again. How does one small person cause so much destruction?

Thursday 23 July 2009

Has spent most of the morning updating IMDb with the cast and crew of the film Colour Blind (2009) from his hospital bed.

Wednesday 22 July 2009

Loves Eddie Timon & Chiquis idea of a Doctors & Nurses Party to celebrate his eventual freedom from hospital whenever that maybe?
Is grateful to Access Storage Battersea for not putting his stuff out for auction today. Only hope I can get what I'm owed in benefits soon

Tuesday 21 July 2009

Can't thank Isla enough for spending the whole day with me. Makes such a difference to recovery to have a good friend to talk to.

Monday 20 July 2009

Appreciates the efforts Julie Dobson made to bring me a dongle to get online. Unfortunately would only work with PC anyone got Mac version.

Sunday 19 July 2009

Is grateful that Reginlad D Hunter is sending the boys around to pick him up in the Wheelchair for his gig in the Udderbelly on Southbank
Is enjoying a feast of food and champagne on the banks of the Thames outside the hospital courtesey of Dirk van der Velden & Ponni Arumugam.

Saturday 18 July 2009

Is wondering if any of his friends has a dongle they could loan him for the next 6 days to enable him to get online from his hospital bed.
Had a wonderful afternoon with Nike Komolafe & AJ though had to apologise to the latter for forcing her to sit through Terminator Salvation.
Loves the fact that Julie Dobson came today with Hugs, kisses, a cheery story and clean underwear. A good start to the weekend.
Is dissapointed that he hasn't got his Son today for a week, as planned and that he's not going Quad Biking this afternoon.

Friday 17 July 2009

It's official, Men are better drivers than women, Dirk van der Velden scored 10/10 for his handling of my shopping troley wheeelchair.
Wants to remind Karina Cornell and Sarah Whitehouse that pulling a patient (i.e. Me) at speed down hospital corridors is .........Fun
Day 20 in Hospital. Will be here for at least another week. Still unable to walk and having to continually fight with the Benefit System.

Thursday 16 July 2009

Would Marry Julie Dobson if he did that sort of thing. Domestic Goddess, Fabulous Counsel, Superb friend & Beautiful. What more do you need.
Was able to find some solace in sanity with the arrival of John Odell. Much needed. Many Thanks.

Wednesday 15 July 2009

Feels very supported by Marigold, Ponni and Marion today for their visit. And Kalyi for trying to help him rid the earlier negativity
Back to square one. Having been through meetings and days of negotiations the plan - same as the disaster 2 weeks ago. Incompetence rules!

Tuesday 14 July 2009

Wishes his darling son Charles Sebastian Atherton-Laurie a fabulous 10th Birthday today. But you need to put down the Wii now & go to school
Loved being Kidnapped from Hospital by Marea O'Sullivan and Emma Williams and being rescued by Nike Komolafe with a St. Bernards stash.
Appreciates Henry Peirse's assistance in finding an investigative journalist to cover my story and ensure no-one else suffers what I have
Wishes all staff were as caring, considerate and understanding in Hospital as Student Nurse Julie Fox.She's sadly the exception not the rule

Monday 13 July 2009

Is dissapointed to be missing his son Charles' 10th Birthday tomorrow. But is pleased he has amazing friends to make sure he has a great day
Not one person in the system has done what they said they would. Today's the turn of MP Kate Hoey - no call this morning as promised Friday
Curtains drawn, TV's whisper, Nurses Giggle, Prayers Said - Body Gone.
One of my ward mates died this morning - I hate Mondays.

Sunday 12 July 2009

Day 16 in Hospital. Still unable to walk. 35 requests for a Social Worker have not even elicited a return call from Lambeth Social Services.
Enjoyed the afternoon with David Williams, It wasn't quite Champagne and cigars but the next best thing. Sitting outside, the Thames & beer
Has been without alcohol and nicotine for 2 weeks, wants to reward himself with a glass of champagne and a cigar. Smugglers to Hospital now

Saturday 11 July 2009

Is looking forward to seeing AJ, Lee-Ann and Marea later. Visitors make hospital time so much easier. I feel very loved.
Is touched by friends new and old. But dissapointed that the person he looked after with ill health for over a year chose not to reciprocate

Friday 10 July 2009

Thinks Marigold Nunes is his Guardian Angel and is in debt to her for all her amazing support and assistance at hospital today.
Is enjoying sharing his hospital bed with Julie Dobson. We're just missing our bottle of Champagne. Soon I hope!

Thursday 9 July 2009

Is saddened that he couldn't take advantage of Marion's spare ticket for Mathew Bourne's Dorian Grey but pleased she dropped by on the way.
was blown away by visit from Isla. Haven't seen her in 4 years and we picked up like it was yesterday. If only other things were so easy

Wednesday 8 July 2009

Appreciates Marea's visit and the suggestion that as I have great views and an in house cinema I should just set up home here at Hospital.
Thinks Cristina Keech is a star for bringing in a selection of DVD's. If I had to watch A History of Violence again someone would get shot
Thanks Caroline Heatlie for putting her Bondage Trousers on to visit him in hospital. The patients on chest ward just catching their breath
Is liking his new Turbo-Charged Zimmer frame. He was able to walk about 5 ft. With it!

Monday 6 July 2009

Is always amazed by the kindness and support of Naomi and Ruth Kenton. It was a lovely surprise to see them tonight.
Thanks Karina for coming and bringing her DVD today. If you can get a copy of the short film The Interview - would higly reccomend it.
Thanks Harriet Olaleye for her surprise visit on Sunday (she's almost forgiven for coming during the Men's Final)
Thanks Deborah and Phillip for being his first surprise visitors on Saturday. Cheered me up no end.

Sunday 5 July 2009

Wished his Mother could have joined me in the Hospital Cinema to watch Star Trek last night, she would have loved it - watching from her bed

Saturday 4 July 2009

Making the best of a bad situation as usual and enjoying the view over the London Eye from his hospital window and Wimbledon on his Apple.

Thursday 2 July 2009

If this wasn't happening to me this would be hysterical. In keeping with the season, like a tennis ball, have been bounced back to hospital.
Is out of the Hospital Frying Pan and into the fire of convalescence accomodation (as yet located). Waiting rooms on the hottest day no fun.

Wednesday 1 July 2009

Is still in hospital and feels like a mushroom - kept in the dark and fed bullshit.

Tuesday 30 June 2009

Is being kept in for another nights observation. And is sick & tired of the incompetence and stupidity of Councils and the benefits system.

Monday 29 June 2009

Thanks everyone for support after being taken to hospital with breathing difficulties. Turns out had a respitory infection. Out tomorrow.

Sunday 28 June 2009

Is in room 29 of The William Gull Ward at St. Thomas's Hospital London. Dripped up but fine. Thanks for all your concern.

Saturday 27 June 2009

is waiting to be rescued. Trip to hospital is imminent.

Wednesday 24 June 2009

loves the irony of not blagging his way onto BBC's Famous, Rich and Homless as the fee would have prevented him from actual being homeless.

Monday 22 June 2009

hopes to see much more of his friends in the coming weeks.

Friday 19 June 2009

wants to thank Joe Pearshouse at The Raindance Film Festival for his assistance with the submission of Colour Blind.

Wednesday 17 June 2009

has just realized that his current experiences will need more than a blog to describe in detail.

Monday 15 June 2009

is preparing his blog to explain the last unbelievable 6 months that has led to this last stand today....

Sunday 14 June 2009

wants to thank John Odell for his friendship, generosity and amazing hospitality. The Gherkin party was just what was needed.

Wednesday 10 June 2009

is still waiting to hear about his future. What happened to good old common sense and human beings involved with decision making?

Monday 8 June 2009

It's make or break day today. A new start or the begining of the end after a 6 year fight.

Sunday 7 June 2009

Is thinking positive thoughts for the week ahead and wishes all his friends happier times.

Saturday 6 June 2009

Is in "Sunny" Wales with his son Charles and is trying to explain why seeing the new Star Trek movie is a better than Night at the Museum 2

Friday 5 June 2009

wants to thank Reg for dinner last night and bringing some much needed humor into my life. Good luck in the hunt.

Wednesday 3 June 2009

After 10 years is roughing it in his car again but over the moon to be back in London. It's a slow, hard fight.
wants to remind all his friends who are suffering right now, that there is light at the end of the tunnel and we've all got to keep fighting

Monday 25 May 2009

believes Star Trek is the best blockbuster he's seen in 2 decades. A must see on the big screen.

Tuesday 12 May 2009

is about to declare war on Barclays Bank and most of the British Public for being so bloody stupid to support such enterprises.

Wednesday 6 May 2009

had an amazing night in London with his brother Richard and his wife yesterday. Drinks, food and hysterical laughter.

Thursday 30 April 2009

will be on BFBS Radio talking about Colour Blind between 16:00 - 17:00 today on http://ping.fm/B0MgB

Monday 27 April 2009

has had the month from Hell but putting his life back together now. Saddened he couldn't find a resolution with his flatmate.

Tuesday 21 April 2009

is looking forward to going to Broadcasting House next Thursday at 17:00 to do an interview about Colour Blind.

Wednesday 15 April 2009

is speaking to journalists and discovered how many of them would have covered the Colour Blind preview if they'd known about it. Annoying.

Saturday 11 April 2009

wants to thank some of his female friends for reminding him what he's been missing for the past 4 years. An amazing weekend. Thank You.

Wednesday 8 April 2009

had a brilliant holiday with his son Charles in Cornwall and will be back after Easter. Waiting to hear from Cannes about Colour Blind.

Friday 3 April 2009

My Place in London - A bar that will become just that.

At first, I thought "My Place in London" was an extremely poor name for a new bar, set up opposite London Bridge Station.

But having attended the soft launch last night, I have to say it's a stroke of genius.

It is and felt just that i.e. My Place in London.

The historic connotations to the traditions of the St. Jame's Gentleman's clubs was not lost on its clientele either.

The Gentleman's clubs were set up as a residence and meeting place for those with their homes in the country - in essence a home from home and this bar certainly captured that feeling.

I have never felt more comfortable in a bar in London in my entire life. Everybody talked to one another, everyone was open to being approached, girls didn't felt hit upon and the guys weren't competing for attention.

Everybody had a sense of either fashion, or style, and for once were not competing for centre stage.

The music was exemplary, a mixture of non-cliched aide memoires, that got even the most ardent non-dancer to their feet.

As the place has no dance floor, your beginning to understand the freedom of My Place in London.

As this was the soft launch, there were clearly some teething problems. Bar staff that were overwhelmed by the cocktail list, a difficulty for many guests to find the entrance as it is in the rear of the building (the front entrance directly opposite London Bridge Station takes you into a Pool Hall, which, though part of the same venue, has an entirely different vibe and feels completely detached to its sister bar downstairs) and a door the remained open to let in a chill.

But nothing that marred the evening and would be easily rectifiable before the Opening night.

"My Place in London" reminded why I love this city so much and I would highly recommend to make it yours.

Wednesday 1 April 2009

Broadcast Journalist Rani Singh's great Blog on Colour Blind http://ping.fm/5C5R8

Tuesday 31 March 2009

Colour Blind Interviews on Colourful Radio
http://ping.fm/bWZqP http://ping.fm/57xIT

Saturday 28 March 2009

Blog title...

Lambeth Council Stole My Car….. Part 1

There are good days, bad days and disasterous days, but this one was catastrophic.

It began first thing in the morning.

I had a radio interview at Colourful Radio to promote my latest film “Colour Blind”. The radio station is based in Vauxhall and would normally be a 20-minute walk to get there from my flat in Waterloo.

Only thing is, I’m not currently in my flat in Waterloo, I am in fact homeless and staying with my friend David in Tring, Hertfordshire (the reasons for this will be left to a different Blog).

Tring is only 27 miles away from central London, so I thought if I left at 07:30 I’d have ample time to arrive at the studio for 09:00. Boy, how wrong was I.

Rush hour traffic on the M25, road-works on the A40 and Ken Livingstones screwed up traffic light timings (that Boris Johnson has still not sorted out) meant the Journey took me just under 2 hours.

As the panic and realisation set in that I was unlikely to make it on time I decided to text to let Henry Bonsu (the presenter of the Breakfast Show) know the situation.

His response added insult to injury to a rapidly deteriorating situation, whilst he could accommodate my late arrival, I discovered he’d been unable to download the film from my website due to a technical problem and therefore had been unable to watch it.

I finally arrived at the Radio station at 09:20, discovered a parking spot but it was on a cash only meter, I normally pay for my parking by text and had no small change. Without the time to go and discover I accepted that I was probably going to get landed with a parking ticket.

I rushed into the station, grabbed a well-needed pee, picked up some water and ran into the studio whilst opening my computer to show my hosts a clip from the film, at 09:30 I was on air.

The interview went well (with exception that my host kept referring to Colour Blind as a documentary rather than a film) and my points about how damaging Political Correctness is to Black Communities prompted an interesting debate, which covered why certain Black people see racism everywhere, why words should be kept in context and not deemed offensive if they’re not and why we shouldn’t be afraid to offend people in a country with free-speech.

After the show, I left with the hosts Henry and Juju to get a coffee and went to check on my car.

It had gone!

My immediate reaction was it must have been stolen. I’d only been gone an hour. But there was no glass on the road or any evidence of a break in. It’s a new mini convertible so not an easy steal and the alarm would have gone off, surely.

Then a dawning realisation, I hadn’t paid for my parking, could they have towed it?

It was difficult to comprehend, a car parked off-road in a parking meter bay, not causing any obstruction and only having been there an hour – why on Gods earth would it have been towed.

But how the hell do you find out, there was no note where my car once was, telling me that’s what happened and the only number on the parking meter was for Lambeth Council.

There was nothing else for it, we went to the café and I called Lambeth Council.

Friday 27 March 2009

is organising a press campaign to get Colour Blind talked about. Next week discussing racism on British Forces Radio.