Jerry Thurston - The Tinkerer

Like Sir Isaac Newton and Humphrey Bogart, Jerry had the good fortune to have been born on Christmas Day. So he expects a double helping of presents. Here’s his list...

Did you know that, statistically speaking, apart from February 29 (for obvious reasons), December 25 has the fewest number of birthdays on it. While this seems unlikely, as theoretically every day should have the same number, it’s true. I’m a Christmas Day boy and ignoring the obvious downsides I reckon it’s great – especially as it allows relatives to save up all year and get you loads of presents.

With this in mind, and the big day fast approaching, I’ve decided to make a list of what I would like to see nicely wrapped up at the end of my bed when I wake up this Christmas Day. And who knows – if I were to leave that list lying around strategically, with the odd item subtly marked, it might grab the attention of someone who will take the hint on my behalf. You should try it.

Starts typing, looks at bruised fingers and thinks... Ratchet spanners. This is for those times, like last night, when I can’t quite get a socket in. I do have a set but they are Whit worth and, as nothing on recent Land Rovers is Whit, they aren’t much use. AF and Metric please, and kindly ensure they come with a lifetime guarantee, of course.