In August 2010, we three old worthies, Richard, Gerry and Stewart are jointly to be celebrating 200 years of plaguing the planet.

All three are sensible of the deep affection in which we are held - individually and/or collectively. As you are overawed by this news, may we urge you not to smother us in albeit carefully chosen and/or immensely valuable gifts. Instead, please make a generous contribution to The Hope Foundation's appeal for the hugely impoverished street children of Calcutta.

Needless to add that your contribution, however huge, should be at least commensurate with the value of the costly gifts which you would have otherwise bestowed on us.