Now I’ve always had a soft spot for the Princes William and Harry. It seems as though Harry’s put his foot in it again, though, poor lad.

Having brought up three sons of our own, I stopped being surprised by the horrible nick-names by which they referred to their mates. I remember “Weak Whittaker”, “Grotty Guy” and “Dumb Dave” in particular. Then there was the lad from Wales who they called “Taffy” – oh dear, wouldn’t they be frowned on now? They were in no way derogatory names and the lads all appeared to be the best of friends. Maybe, with hindsight, Prince Harry was misguided – but after all it was three years ago and he was a fresh-faced 21 year old at the time.

To his credit, he has apologized and quite rightly so. “Paki” is offensive to a great many people (even if not to the friend he referred to personally) and Harry should know better. But I’d like to think it was not meant to be offensive in any way. As always, in these matters, we can’t know all the facts.

Also in the news is the birth of a healthy son to Charlotte Church. After the recent doom and gloom, it’s lovely news. She’s made a good start to the large family she said she’s hoping for.

How good to hear something more cheerful – something to cheer us up on a gloomy day.