MAY DAY

Danes are pretty big on May Day. Many workers get a half, or even a whole, day's holiday (though they wouldn't have needed it today, of course). However, rather than dancing round the maypole or similar, they support the more modern version of the day as International Workers' Day. That means going to political rallies in the park, complete with flags, bands and beer, and where various party leaders tell them why things are going to be so much better, if only they were elected.

Having a picnic with your family in the park on a sunny day is a nice idea. But why combine that with listening to politicians? I can't think of anything more boring. Which is why I played in a bridge tournament instead.

Walter Blotscher