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I had to go to see the doctor this morning; this time a doctor appointed by the Department of Work and Pensions. Not content with the judgement of my GP, and obviously unwilling to take the word of the hospital surgeon and his Registrars, the DWP have to determine whether my ailments are genuine, or whether I am an actor worthy of London's West End. A hoop that has to be jumped through; an obstacle that has to be hurdled, the letter advising me of the 'assessment' also warns that 'failure to attend may result in loss of benefit'. Resigned as I was to losing the benefit anyway, I nevertheless attended as instructed, and was assessed and evaluated by a government appointed doctor whom I had never before laid eyes on, and who did not have access to my medical files. I attempted to stand up, sit down, lean over, press with my foot and stand on my toes to the best of my limited abilities. I answered questions about my daily routine and the type of work I normally do. After 30 minutes of this, the doctor had made his decision, which would be forwarded to the Benefits Agency: I am entitled to stay off work and receive the appropriate state benefit. You could have knocked me over with a feather! I came home and celebrated with a cup of coffee, a chocolate biscuit and a (Glasgow) Herald. Craig (the fencer) will be up tomorrow to build a fence and knock down a 10ft brick wall. Gavin ought to come up too, and get the lens he wants to borrow (hint, hint, Gavin). A rather good day was rounded off with a victory for Scotland against Norway as our chances of getting to the World Cup are still alive - albeit very slim. Changed days indeed for our boys - we have suddenly rediscovered the art of winning football games! Long may it continue!

We're on the march with Walter's Army!

Last year our garden was open plan