Thought for the Day with the Rev Richard de Vere

I read in the papers this morning of the further fall from grace of one of our most senior politicians, Mr. David Blunkett.

It seems to me that, rather than pouring scorn on this beleagered figure, we should be extending the hand of Christian fellowship. After all, don't we all face opprobrium of one kind or another at some point in our lives?

Not so long ago, I too tasted the bitter fruit of humiliation and the sharp sting of public recrimination. I was accused (wrongly of course) of misappropriation of church funds.

At such times, one discovers who one's real friends are, and I was fortunate to have the unwavering support of one of Grantleigh's most respected figures, Mr. George O'Knutt, the village bookmaker.

Not only did Mr. O'Knutt offer to replace the missing funds; he gave me extended credit for the duration of the National Hunt season!

Thought: Blessed are the bookmakers, for if the 3:15 comes in at Market Rasen, St. Cavendish's shall have a new roof after all!