I have nothing but praise for Lumo. A long planned day trip to Auld Reekie went smoothly, the train was on time, clean and comfortable, my seat reserved, the staff pleasant.

The only effect of the train strike affecting pretty much all other services in NCL that Saturday, was that walking through and waiting in a largely empty Central Station was quite a nice experience, reminiscent of the Golden Age I am thinking.

I was so happy and relaxed, it melted away all plans I had to try and pick a fight with the picketing drivers outside the portico, who very much didn't seem to give off a vibe that this was an act of last gasp desperation that they dearly regretted on their part.

Laughing and joking with their appointed protectors in fact, Northumbria's Finest. Cowards.

As for their supposed gripe, the cost of living, that very enjoyable micro staycation, including the train fare, festival gig ticket and beers and breakfast, cost a grand total of £90. Well within my holiday budget on a pay of under £10ph in unstable work.

Had they ruined this small piece of summer for me, I'd have gladly risked a fine for affray in inviting them to a political debate, mano a mano.