Stop all the clocks

Well, we buried one of my grandmothers today. The one who passed away.

It was a sombre day. A raw wind chilled us at the graveside, and hymns in minor key accentuated the sadness.

Of the many touching and emotional images I'll retain for years to come, the sight of my brother-in-law on a trampoline particularly stands out.

Grandma's birthday joy

I think my gran enjoyed the bits of her 98th birthday she was conscious for. OK, she didn't know me or my mother (who cares for her 24 hours per day), but she seemed happy.

I'm sure she's really looking forward to her present from me: a Manchester United football training day. She was trying out her bicycle kicks only last night - success rate hovering around the 70% mark, I reckon. She'd certainly give Owen Hargreaves competition for his coveted 2nd reserve team spot, and she's only slightly older than Giggs.

Talking of football - not a bad weekend for the Potters. Man U weren't too convincing in their 1-0 victory over non-league Crawley!