I was watching the television programme Room 101 the other evening, in which panellists choose their pet hates.
It got me wondering what my own choices would be. I soon came up with three niggles that regularly drive me to distraction.
Top of my list must be digital clocks, where the numbers are electronically formed. Only the other morning I glanced in a sleepy state to see that it was either 5.05 or 6.06. Threes and eights often cause problems, too, especially if the sun is shining through on to the clock’s screen.
Another contender for Room 101 would have to be weather forecasts, especially when the local one follows the national one. The national one could have me reaching for a lighter cardigan while the local one finds me grabbing a rain mac on the strength of their predictions.
Finally, the word “pensioner” would be front of the queue for Room 101 and deletion from the English language. I find it most offensive. If only another suitable word or phrase could be substituted for it. Perhaps “mature” – like the best wines and cheeses, we endeavour to improve with longevity. It is the implication of “pensioner” which upsets me.
What do others think? It would be most interesting to find out what annoyances other readers would consign to Room 101.
Michael Parker, Oakdene Crescent, Portslade
What would you consign to Room 101? Email letters@theargus.co.uk
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