Poolside Percy

Last gasp/chance Sunday afternoon swim. After a fruitless attempt at buying jeans and sunglasses I sought the calm and rejuvenating waters of the Oasis. I haven't been swimming much recently, it's cold, I can't find any free swimming vouchers and it's Christmas. Whatever, I love swimming at Oasis. There was a girl with flippers swimming at the bottom of the very deep end, she looked very cool. I arrived late but set myself a target of 60 lengths which I just about managed before kicking out time. Photo: CNJ

Sunday afternoon attempt at swimming. Arrive direct from Shepherd's Bush, water is cool, not even steaming. I lumber and splash, I've forgotten how to swim, forgotten how to be a hero. I feel very uninspired. I consider getting out at length 30 but as if by magic the middle lane becomes free, the massive expanse of the middle lane all to myself under the uninspiring, cloudless and starless London sky. I splosh on and on and on. Finally make it to 60 lengths. Suggs made a TV programme here once.