Major restructure at work almost complete. From Monday I don't officially have a job but I will still be payed to sit at an empty desk and twiddle my thumbs (thank you Mr UK taxpayer). Good riddance I say. No more diplomatic chit-chat with crazy Russians, Kazakhs, Turks and provincial colleagues (real quote: "what language do they speak in Russia?"). No more mad-dash briefing requests for Ministers or Parliamentary Qustion Time. No more budget juggling on behalf of overseas Embassies and no more ticking-off Ambassadors for using entertainment budgets for hookers. I shan't miss any of this but I shall miss my comrades, our bitchy banter, and our pub/canteen lunches. Onwards please.

Off to Blackpool tonight with Darren and Edward for a weekend full of electric lights, chips, beach walks and sea air.