National Pride...

Call me an old cynic but I can be a bit sniffy about Royal Weddings, Diamond Jubilee celebrations, the Olympic hullabaloo etc.

Maybe it is my pretence at sophistication. Yeah right!

I am what you would call a 'late adopter' but once I am on message I am unstoppable.

I had the opportunity to see the Olympic torch procession today, just ambled along as you do. I was particularly struck by the sense of pride displayed by the participants, it was so infectious.

So what with the torch celebrations and the advert for the Paralympic TV coverage, if you haven't seen it yet you will know what I mean when you do, I am hooked.

So come on team GB, the flags are out. Even if they are left over from the Jubilee. See what I mean, I am just an old softy really!