Practical or pretty? Bill Cottam considers a modern-day dilemma, recalls redecorating his mother’s kitchen, and explains how his own approach differs to that of many of today’s ultra-efficient carp catchers…

BY BILL COTTAM

Cold-weather success in the shape of a fiftysix- plus

PHOTOGRAPHY BILL COTTAM AND FRIENDS

CONFESSION TIME

I take my role as your resident seeker of truth and justice very seriously. Certainly, part of my responsibility involves leading by example, and setting standards which I sincerely hope you all do your utmost to aspire to. Honesty plays a huge part in what I strive to bring to the ’Ology party, and with this in mind, I have something I have to get off my chest… a confession if you will.

Now, in common with drug or alcohol addiction, the first step to recovery is having the strength to realise that a problem exists in the first place, and that is exactly the point at which I find myself at this juncture in my life.

I am truly sorry if you feel let down by my admission, and I will totally understand, of course, if you may find it difficult ever to trust a word I write again, but the fact is, my luggage doesn’t match… in fact, it doesn’t even come close! The mistake I have made over the years, has been to buy specific items of luggage based solely on their quality and how they suit my requirements, and I have to say, they all do so superbly well. I do, though, recognise the error of my ways, and have ended up with a vast array of brands of luggage in various differing shades of green and camo. This, I guess, will never render me fit to occupy a chair at the top table of time-served, bona fide carp tigers. Forgive me Father, for I have sinned!