The Big Giveaway - part 1

I'm leaving Manchester at the end of June. In my six-and-a-half years here, I've accumulated lots of things that I can't take with me on the plane to Japan. Do you want any of it?

Manchester Bucket List.

Have you ever seen a film called The Bucket List? It stars Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, and it is one of the biggest piles of stinking shit to ever by passed by the bowels of Hollywood. Two great actors, one steaming turd of a film. It's a shame because the basic premise – making a list of things that you want to do before you kick the eponymous bucket, and then doing them – is strong. In seven weeks, Laura and I are leaving Manchester. Here's what's on our list so far:-

• Eat at Bem Brasil
• Ride the Manchester Big Wheel
• Entertain Robbie and Rachel
• Drink at the Briton's Protection
• Walk in the Peak District
• Eat at El Rincon de Rafa
• Entertain Tracy and Andy
• Drink at the Peveril of the Peak
• Eat at Kim by the Sea

Yes, that's right my keen-eyed friends, it is mostly based on eating and drinking. But it's by no means finished yet. If you were leaving Manchester in a few weeks, what would you consider unmissable? C-c-c-comment away!

Mere Sands Wood.

Photos of Japan, one month after the tsunami

As ever, the Big Picture feature over at Boston.com provides stunning photogrpahy of the earthquake, tsunami and its aftermath. Click here for the gallery, from which a few highlights after the jump.

What's wrong Laura?

What's that you say? The shinkansen is out of control? And Gojira is up ahead? OMG!

Impromptu Parsonage Reunion

Man, I love these guys.

Goyt Valley walking

Earthquake in Japan

Holy shit! There's been a massive earthquake in Japan. Keep an eye on the Guardian's coverage, and the BBC News live feed on for more coverage. I'm stunned, really stunned. Shit.

Laura's leaving card

It's much better than the card my colleagues gave me, because it conveys exactly my sentiments towards my former job. I'm so happy to be out of there.