NORTHERN PLANNER

I like getting in really early. I get lots done, it’s quiet and I miss the traffic. But every now and then I’m joined by Ron, Jimmy and Terry. Our building manager and able assistants.

These boys keep our place together – everything would, quite literally fall apart without them. Besides their official job, they’re a critical part of the fabric of this place. They’ve been here longer than anyone, they’ve got stories to tell, but most of all, they’re funny.

Listening to them this morning, I realised the secret to really good male comedy – bickering. And that’s because it’s true of all men who have a good friendship. There is constant arguing, hissy fits and wind ups. Not being nice to each other is the glue that keeps male friendships together.

Look at Morecambe and Wise, Larry David and Ted Danson, Reeves and Mortimer, Del and Rodney, Mighty Boosh, Peep Show….what makes them all work is the love/hate relationship between them all. It’s funny because it’s true.