The annual, Catholic, Giving-things-up competition has started again. That's right, yesterday was Ash Wednesday and it's time to offer up something nice and yummy for a bloke who died on a cross a couple of thousand years ago. This year I'm using it as an excuse to give up smoking. That's right, boys and girls, so you have fair warning that I could kill you if you wind me up at the wrong time.

Actually, I got myself a nicotine inhaler and it seems to be working out just fine. I still miss an old smoke, but at least the cravings are lessened. We'll see what happens when I head out tonight - I imagine the £50 bet I have with a housemate on lasting will keep me focused.