CROSS words. No, not rows and arguments, but I’ve become somewhat of a crossword addict — well maybe addict is too a strong a word.

But I find myself looking for the crossword page even before I have read the news.

And though there is nobody near, I give myself a big smile and mental hug of congratulation when I have completed one in the time I have allotted myself.

I think it must be my competitive nature, it seems if there is no one else to challenge then I must compete with myself.

Well, the summer is over, and how do I know?

Because my back garden is full of fallen leaves, which are calling to me to sweep them up, but good sense and my innate idleness tells me to leave them where they are, as there are lots more to come down yet.

I am off to London on Thursday to The Great Hall, Imperial College where Boris Johnson is speaking.

My son, Andrew has bought the tickets as a special treat, knowing that I love a trip to London and that I am an admirer of Boris.

I think that’s because he is rather unconventional and a bit off the wall, which is quite a unique trait in a politician.

London! Oh to me it’s such an evocative word, it conjures up lots of things — sophistication, excitement, the hub of things, where it all happens.

Which of course is not true.

I know it’s what happens up here in the north which is far more important to us.

I suppose it’s a throw back to my childhood when London was that big city somewhere down there in that inaccessible place called the south.

I am now frantically rummaging through my wardrobe hoping to find something suitable both to wear for the event and which will also be suitable for a picture with the man himself.

I am hoping to have one taken, when I buy his book, which no doubt he will be selling at the do.

Wish me luck!