The decision to press ahead with the rationalisation, while there is still uncertainty about the bank's strategic direction, gives the City some red meat to chew on.

Listen to your regional Programme Parade at 8.10 a.m. daily.

The punctal plug has been found useful in treating keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) and is believed to be suitable for treating other ophthalmic ailments where retention of lacrimal fluid on the surface of the eye and in the lacrimal lake is desired or where sustained release of an ophthalmic medication to the eye by using the plug as a medication carrier is desired.

We did not even possess two coats apiece - our ordinary costume being waterproof monkey jackets, sailor hats with puggarees twined round them, and some simple white muslin or fresh cotton dresses.