In Memoriam Pete

It’s true he could be mean

but he was funny and charismatic.

I liked Pete.

And so I set off to his memorial service

in Brighton.

Arriving at Clapham Junction station

I see a sign

with those 2 dismal words,

Bus Replacement.

‘Bus Replacement to Burgess Hill.’

Burgess Hill?

That’s 30 fucking miles away!

I hesitate

I reflect

and I conclude…

I liked Pete

but I didn’t like him enough

to take the bus replacement to Burgess Hill.

I remember just how mean he was

I turn round and head back home

where I catch the last 10 minutes

of the Antiques Road Show.