A good leak

On the way to spotting the fake at reference 1, I came across a serious leak coming out of the pavement by the exit to the southern extension of Ashley House.

Spreading nicely down Ashley Road, towards the crossroads.

Still going strong three days later, with no sign of action at the source.

A small tree in fine flavour outside Metro Bank. Bit of a puzzle how they keep going, with this large space usually containing very few people. But they do have - or at least did have - a change counting machine which you do not to be a client to use and I have read that they have quite a decent mortgage book. Perhaps this last keeps them afloat. A quick tally at their store locator at reference 2 suggests between 70 and 80 branches across the country: concentrated in the south east, but straying as far as Newcastle up north and Cardiff in the west. Probably pretty small beer compared with the big high street banks - but you still have to pay the rent.

To Wetherspoon's where I was able to inspect an empty tinnie: a brand which I understand is doing well. Does it fly in Nigeria where, I believe, they are keen on the regular Guinness.

Gemini seems to know all about this one too. I learn that the Nigerian version is made mainly of sorghum and maize, although essence of Guinness is shipped in from Dublin. Also that it is a lot stronger than the stuff we get, so maybe they won't go for the zero option.

As well as Guinness, it seems that Nigerians are also very into instant noodles. Something else they have in common with us - and for which see reference 4.

All of which prompts me to wonder whether the Muslim Nigerians in the north of the country are strict about alcohol. Gemini suggest that the split is geographical with Sharia and clandestine drinking in the north; much more free and easy in the more urban south. Notwthstanding which, Muslims in the south are keen on no alcohol Guinness - there called Malta Guinness - particularly for formal functions such as weddings. Also available at selected Tesco stores here in the UK.

Back at Epsom though, not warm enough to be comfortable sitting outside on the terrace, so back inside again, among all the other pensioners.

Not seen any good dandelion patches yet, but Court Recreation Ground could offer this modest one.

And another small tree which seems to be doing pretty well. Also evidence that someone is taking care of the place.

Home to snap the primroses already noticed at reference 4. A quiet and pleasant day.

References

Reference 1: https://psmv6.blogspot.com/2026/03/fake-196.html.

Reference 2: https://www.metrobankonline.co.uk/.

Reference 3: https://www.tolaram.com/.

Reference 4: https://www.dufil.com/.

Reference 5: https://psmv6.blogspot.com/2026/03/primrose-petals.html.

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