I SO want to write something optimistic, something constructive, then I drive into town and find myself in the merry-go-round that is Blackburn's roads I was going to write system, but that's exactly what it's not, it's chaos.

What it's costing the town, us, shopkeepers, I dare not think.

I'm trying to pinpoint when what I need,' became what I want' and then changed into it's my right.

Men hi-jack a plane, why? Because they want' to live here.

Folk enter illegally, commit crimes, and at great cost are put in prison, released, then won't go home.

Why? Because it's my right' to live here. Are we completely barmy?

Any person applying for refugee status and found guilty of a crime, should be sent back to their country of origin, no ifs or buts.

Our health service, police and prisons are stretched with our own home grown villains without taking on the world's misfits.

I'm feeling over regulated' and that feeling was reinforced this week when the BBC had to recruit its staff to make up the crowd' for Top of the Pops.

This is a show that has been enjoyed for decades without a mishap, the crowd being enthusiastic members of the public.

Suddenly, it needs a licence!

It's the same at the church hall or the old folk's home, wanting to have a sing song, or even when the shopping mall wants to have a brass band.

We are being licensed to death and there's no doubt you'll need one for that soon.

And then I sit back, look out of my window where the trees are in blossom, the sun is shining and the birds are singing, my dog, is asleep in a pool of sunshine, Bill's making a cup of tea, there's food in the cupboard and money in my purse, so why do I bother? I suppose it's the nature of the beast.

Barbara Castle Way and the Cathedral grounds are looking great and wasn't it good to see people sitting out there eating and chatting, bringing a bit of life to the place?

On Monday I was the ARP at the Holiday Inn, Bolton.

I know, I, too, had a moment of deja vu, but it's short for the Association of Retired Persons over 50.

They might be over 50, but retired? Never. A very young active group.

I've decided I need a holiday. I don't like to too hot, too far, too long or too quiet.

And I love plenty to do. Now, where to go any suggestions? Hey! Only nice ones!

It's grand that most folk are pleasant and good natured.

My dog got under the fence and out on to the road the other day and three cars stopped.

The owners got out, chased and caught her which was no easy task and brought her home.

I told you I was looking for something good and optimistic well I found it in that.