Wouldn't like to be in her shoes

Theresa May MP gave an inspiring speech at the Licensed Trade Charity's (LTC's) School President's Day.

Standing alongside Licensed Trade Charity (LTC) chairman Barbara Williams, May - the shadow culture secretary who has been all over the press for slating licensing reform - congratulated pupils on their hard work.

The school awards yearly bursaries to children from families who work or have worked in the licensed trade.

This month the school celebrated a 100% pass rate at A- level and 161 pupils were awarded prizes and scholarships.

May quoted Kipling and urged every pupil to 'fill the unforgiving minute with 60 seconds worth of distance run' while LTC and LVS trustees in the audience grumbled about her being part of the Department for Culture, Media & Sport and, as they put it, 'must have something to do with licensing'.

May smugly joked about her leopard-print shoes, saying she can now pick out and wear any pair she likes after becoming famous for her 'outrageous' footwear.

She also talked about her first day in office and how important she felt when the phone rang. At least she did until the voice on the other end said: 'Hello, is that Edwina Curry?'

Snifter would love to know just who it was who placed the call, but May said she didn't think to ask.

Snifter offers his warmest congratulations to licensees Trevor and Susan Marston for having the best pub view in Britain. The Pyramid Pub Company hosts of the Brewers Arms in Lower Dinglie, West Malvern, beat off tough competition from pubs around the country to win top prize in the competition, which was organised by pub operator Eldridge Pope and the Morning Advertiser. They were presented with their plaque last week. From left to right, Clive Smith (Eldridge Pope), Richard Matthews (BBPA), Susan Marston, Trevor Marston and Jonathan Smith (Pyramid Pub Company BDM).