Not long now until Shankers hits the North West... something to focus the mind required! Read on.

As thoughts turn to our annual battle, I reviewed my stock of golfing tat. Last year's Christmas stocking as usual had its fair share to offer - I thought I'd share my favourite:

Your typical Scouse female (ba' heid)

During a recent venture out, I donated one of these puppies to Nolan and assured him it would focus his attention on the ball. Smashed her to bits!

Cocker takes the skin off it...

I've also been pondering over what delights the lovely city of Liverpool will be conjuring up in terms of "evening eats". After last year's Morrocan curve ball, I may well sit this one out and leave the local experts to it... For non-Liverpudlians, here's a sample of what we can expect to be dished up, every Scouser's dream - "Scouse" normally eaten raw, after 15 pints of Cains:

Tripe