A typical European during the summer months[/caption]One summer, as a young reporter, I made the dire mistake of complaining to a news editor, who was hot on the hunt for news. that: ' it was a bit quiet out there'. Oh dear. It was the 1980s and in no uncertain terms he told me in his best Scottish: 'You're a %$"^*ing report aren't you? Go and %$"^*ing find some, if there isn't any then make some. ' Note he didn't say 'make it up' he said 'create' some. My dilemma is one journalists often find themselves in at this time of the year so it's always good to conduct research, do a vox pop, host a round table etc to prime the pump. This has worked for many years.
All of which brings me to recent events.
There's been a lot of talk recently about whether the UK should fall into line with Europe and take the whole of August off, as seems to be the tradition in other, mainly southern, European countries. I propose it already has.
After some interesting discussions with Alcon and the launch of its Air Optix Colors lenses Optician concluded that it would be a great idea to host a round table discussion. This is an idea with merit, suitable for any time of the year, don't get me wrong. It's timing was just perfect timing too.
A delegate list was drawn up and invitations issued. As it turned out there was a lot of interest in the topic and all was looking well. With the proposed date of the round table being August 13 I had worries that holidays might get in the way but replies, mainly from independents, came back straight away saying they were champing at the bit to be there.
All was not well. A few tentatives became more so and other nominees were found to be unavailable. In the end, not wishing to string those who had accepted along, there was no alternative but to postpone. Much of the UK, excepting stalwart independent opticians, have gone away on holiday.
I for one am very much looking forward to this discussion. Thanks once again to those who agreed and cleared their diaries. I won't mention any names for fear of embarrassment but you know who you are.
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A typical young reporter these days[/caption]Of course young reporters today would be shocked, and the news editor sacked, if the same treatment was meted out to them as my misguided protestations met about things being: ' a bit quiet', back in the 80s. Today they would be offered counselling a Camomile tea, some reiki massage and a lie down in the shade.
Ed: That's Enough stereotypes.