This is getting tedious. On Friday morning I checked in at Birmingham Airport for two flights, to Montpellier via Amsterdam. My suitcase, containing all my more expensive modelling tools, had to be checked in because its contents would not pass a hand baggage inspection.

I had a one hour transfer in Amsterdam which I was assured was enough for me to go through immigration as well as change gates. I barely made it, only by running most of the way which at 70 years old was not very pleasant (have you noticed how mobile phone users simply get in the way of anyone in a hurry?) When I arrived at the gate it was about to close and the rather unpleasant Dutchman who took my ticket and listened to my out of breath complaint said "well, you made it, didn't you?" If I had had the energy I would have remonstrated further.

I also noticed that the plane from Birmingham was sitting on an adjacent stand to my next departure so I felt sure my suitcase would not have had the experience I had. Wrong! It did not fly with me to Montpellier and nearly two days later I still don't have it. It has been out for delivery since 6:30 am so I suppose my suitcase is last on the list despite me being an "elite" card holder.

I cannot go out because no-one can tell me where my suitcase is or when it will be delivered. Neither can I do any modelling beyond some carpentry on Legge Lane's baseboards.

So to end this rather boring post, I will admit that I planned to drive back to England anyway and that is what I will do. Thank goodness my David Andrews Compound kit is not in the suitcase - I decided at the last minute to leave it behind.