I went to a party this weekend, with the swimming folks. It is always interesting to hear what people do for a living outside of paddling up and down the lanes at the local lido (outdoor pool). Plus, chat with people you normally see wearing silicone swimming caps. They have hair!

The host of the event asked me about my cheeseboard recommendations (I was a bit vague about it, but said, make it four different types), and she then went and had a jolly time tasting cheese at Neal’s Yard Dairy in Borough Market. As you can see it was a lovely spread. Baron Bigod is always a winner and who doesn’t like a bit of Montgomery Cheddar? She went for Stichelton, which is a solid choice. And the goat cheese was Karst, which is made by Siobhán Ní Gháirbhith in County Clare, Ireland, using milk from her herd of Saanen and Toggenburg goats. There was also a walnut infused French cheese from another guest. And Boursin, because who doesn’t like a bit of that?

I realise my cheese tastes are quite diverse, but everyone loved the cheeseboard and it was a talking point. The host also said her experience of Neal’s Yard and selecting the cheese board has now ruined her for lesser cheeses.

I shall direct her to the Academy of Cheese, I think. One person at a time, we are showing the world what cheese making and dairy is about. The joy and the taste of cheese making and tasting.

Lastly, congratulations to Spain on being the FIFA World Cup winners. It was not a glorious end for Argentina, and frankly, the behaviour of some of the players after the whistle blew was appalling. That being said, let’s remember the earlier matches, such as the tiny country of Cabo Verde drawing with the winners. We quite enjoyed the larger World Cup format overall.

The runner up game between France and England was a much better quality match for both teams, and Kylian Mbappé’s Golden Boot was another well-deserved accolade. Just a great match with lots of goals. They looked like they were having fun. And hey, that’s what football is about, no matter what level you play at.