Brexitanian news appearing on Italian TV tend to be mainly about the House of Windsor and other local eccentricities. However the recent outrage that occurred in the seaside resort of Southport has sadly taken prime position in news items here. I keep on wondering what evil motive links such massacres as Bataclan, the Manchester Arena and now Southport. What is it that connects the sight of young people having fun and enjoying good music with murder in the minds of psychotics?

Meanwhile the Italian seaside season continues with unabated frisson. After the great advertisement of the February carnival the holidaymakers are finding their places in the manicured, regimented beaches.

Portofino, Baratti, Amalfi, Cinque Terre. Why is it that these names evoke paradisiacal visions whereas. names like Bognor Regis, Clacton and now Southport evoke abysmal horror? I really do feel that there could hardly be worst punishment on earth than being exiled in a brexitanian ‘seaside resort’!!!!!