I can honestly say that my colleagues are some of the nicest, friendliest people it's possible to know. We've had a big off-site meeting today, announcing to our staff the half-year results and talking about how we are going to work towards our year end targets. I can't say what the outcome of the meeting was - I don't want to be 'up before the beak' for insider trading so you'll just have to wait till 8th September for the news when we announce to the city (if you care).

We always meet in the same little hotel in a back street of Epsom, with a few presentations and then a late lunch, after which people drift off home without going back to the office.

It has been fantastic weather and we've all been enjoying the sun while working - perfect! So, from the left.....

Ewan - a gem, a fellow Border Collie lover, travelling companion and altogether good guy (well, unless you happen to be one of his ex-girlfriends from his mis-spent youth I gather!

Beth, she has been a tower of strength to me in recent times, kindness herself. She told me a lovely story of how she will remember me in the future which has touched me to my very core. I will miss you so much when you leave us, Beth.

Sarah, our new secretary who shares some history with me as she, too comes from a military background.

Cassie - you've met her before, what more can I say. She's very excited about heading off to Brazil next week to oversee some fieldwork for us.

Chris - again you've met him before - his one failing is his weakness for Liverpool FC!!!

Steve, star of my diary in April, when he won the best paper at the BHBIA conference. He's a fellow Spurs fan but his taste in women is questionable (sorry to the lovely Vicky, his wife)- the SUGABABES?????

Finally, Louise - what a delight it has been to work with Louise. Finding her CV when I was looking for a new Director was one of the best strokes of luck I've had. I have a feeling we will become great friends as time moves on.