February 2008

[Sweder]

Another one of those tricky recovery runs this morning.
I wasn't going to bother but I was lured to the bedroom window shortly after daybreak by a delighful chorus of chirps and twitters. A couple of rival Robins sniped at each other across the privet hedge, obviously an area of territorial contention for these feathered neighbours. Bluetits hopped and skipped in the branches of the Silver Birch, jousting for possesion of the lone bird-box. All this activity left me feeling somewhat exhausted yet the legs cried out for an infusion of warm blood. On with the shorts and vest and off into the hills then, nice and slow.

I flicked on my DAB to learn that Planet Rock is living on borrowed time. The parent company, Global Radio/ GCap media, announced a new strategy this morning. Digital radio broadcasting is, apparently, a costly exercise. The bean counters at Global have decided to pull the plug and focus on their FM business. The PR forum was laden with doom and gloom this morning. One thread invited listeners to guess what the final song will be. What? Rolling over so easy? What about a possible MBO? Surely Alice Cooper's loaded? Illigitimum Nil Carborundum, brothers! Thankfully others showed more stoicism. A chartered accounted offered his services gratis and several listeners have written to the DJs to offer support should a management buyout be on the cards. I can't imagine life without PR - it's been a revelation, rekindling old friendships across the musical spectrum. No time for euligies just yet though - watch this space.

Halfway to the Cap I met a young lady jogging the same route. Our dogs introduced themselves to one another in customary fashion. I refrained from following suit as a kick in the groin can be so debilitating when one is attempting to run. She tailed off as we crested Wicker Man Hill, leaving me and my pack to flog up the last hill alone. It was a labour of love to be sure, reluctant sinews fighting against instructions, leaden legs misbehaving as I worked the incline.

Heading home I soaked up the fabulous views. Once again that layered townscape basked in glorious sunshine, the sillhouettes draped in purple mist. The river sparkled, a twisting necklace of gems dancing through the sleepy valley. Perhaps this weather, like my beloved Planet Rock, won't be with us for much longer. I intend to drink my fill of both whilst the going's good.