THE TUDORS

There was more of the Tudors on the tele this evening. Cate Blanchett starring in the sequel to Elizabeth, this time as the mature - though still virgin - queen of 1585, the year of the Spanish Armada.

I am not sure that it was historically 100% accurate. But it gave a good introduction to the issues involved; the religious and political rivalry with Spain, the threat from Catholicism, what to do with Mary, Queen of Scots, the difficulties of being an unmarried queen when monarchies require an heir, and the close shave before the Armada is eventually destroyed (mainly through bad weather). Plus the costumes and scenery were great.

As an Englishman in a multinational family, I got a little lump in the throat when we won. It's just a pity we are not as good as the Spanish at football.

Walter Blotscher