The 'leaving do' is a funny kind of thing. For years you attend them both glad it's not you facing the embarrassment and wondering what yours will be like when the time comes. And suddenly the time does come.

With my line manager away on sick leave it was left to others to do the formal part of the ritual but the card and presents and cake (a Dalek!) (Soon exterminated) were almost a bit overwhelming. Struggled to say something intelligible, but what do you say really?

Found some real jobs to finish off which was satisfying - as was having the tidiest desk I've ever managed, but with lunchtime drinks, academics who hadn't made the 'do' dropping in, the day flashed past and all too soon it was time to turn in my keys, take my leave of office and building and head out for the restaurant with a dozen, now former, colleagues.

So it goes.