This novel is something a little different for me. It is a satire set in the UK at the present moment. There are striking parallels between these days and the 1930s. There’s a lot of racist people around who are crawling out of the woodwork as they have been encouraged by the implications of the Brexit vote.

====

“Sounds like they’re here already,” said Binnsy and went out.

A minute later, ‘Toppy’ Rogers-Hewitt, ‘Dapper’ Dan Heaton-Hall, and ‘Terry’ Briggs-Bishop entered the room.

“Hello, Tomcat, how are you?” said Toppy.

“Ripping,” Replied Tompkins.

Hello, Tomcat, how are you?” said Dapper.

“Ripping,” replied Tompkins.

“Hello, Tomcat, how are things?” said Terry.

“Splendid,” replied Tompkins, glad that someone had greeted him in a different manner, “what’s the jolly game then?”

“Heard you’ve left an offering for the hoi polloi at the front.” said Dapper Dan.

“Absolutely, oh Dapper One, should prove a distraction, if there are any hyenas around looking for a meal.”

“The GOM should be here any minute,” said Terry, “he’s just drying off, he swam just in case there were any spies on the road.”

“Or in the harbour, it’s misty out there” said Toppy.

“Top-hole swimmer is the GOM,” said Tompkins, “he once swam The Channel underwater with only a  snorkel for company, although he didn’t land on French soil, if you like, he turned around and came back straightaway. He was so modest, he didn’t mention it to anyone.”

“Superb attitude,” said Dapper Dan.

“I agree,” said Toppy.

“Huzzaa for the GOM,” said Terry.

At that moment, the door opened and the GOM entered. He was 6ft 4 inches in height, with a mane of blond hair, and extremely broad shoulders.

“Uncle, how the devil are you?” asked Tompkins.