I know that we Brits have got a reputation for complaining, but does no-one possess a sense of humour any more?

After the Brand/Ross débacle (which, ironically, centered on an actor famed for his potentially-semi-racist-but-certainly-stereotyped-depiction-of-a-foreigner role), the “meeja” are now stirring up trouble for Mr. Clarkson…

One hundred and eighty-eight complaints before it hit the press. Out of an audience of seven million. Now, my maths may be rusty but even I know that’s a tiny percentage (0.003% -ish) that are calling for Jezza’s head on a platter.

As at time of writing, the number has literally swelled to 517 (0.007%) individuals that have nothing better to do with their time than complain; 329 that probably don’t even normally watch TG (an increase of 175%, seeing as we’re playing the maths game).

As for JC – sack him? Hell no – make him Prime Minister (or at least give him a knighthood for services to common sense and clear thinking)!

What am I blathering on about? Well, dear reader, it appears that BBC TV’s “Top Gear” may not be strictly playing by the rules…

There was I, enjoying yet another repeat of TG on Dave (no relation); specifically Series 8 Episode 8, where one Jensen Button proceeded to put in a 1:44 lap of the TG track in the old reasonably-priced car.

Now, as talented as Mr Button is, I can’t quite believe that he managed to swap cars several times on his lap and still come in under two minutes. What’s that you say? Swap cars? How?

Careful analysis of the footage (ok, the missus spotted it first) reveals that JB leaves the start line in a flurry of wheel-spin and a ’52 plate Suzuki Liana. Later on in the same lap, the car miraculously transforms into an ’03 plate, back to a ’52 and once more to an ’03 before crossing the line. Impressive or what?

My better half has emailed the TG producers over this petit faux-pas but has yet to receive a reply. If you’re reading, guys, it’s not really that big a deal but I’d like to try a few laps of the track in said car; just to see if it really *is* magic… Failing that, a couple of tickets to the show wouldn’t go amiss

Problem is, I can’t focus on the Star Laps now without wondering if it’s going to happen again.

One more illusion – shattered.

Over the last couple of months, my father-in-law and I have managed to turn an 8′x4′ sheet of 18mm ply (yes, I know I’m mixing metric and imperial – so sue me) into what is, in my opinion, a pretty darn good 60W 2×12″ cabinet to partner my Carlsboro 50 Top head.

I’ve yet to plug it in but I’m still chuffed to bits. Sure, I could’ve bought a Marshall equivalent and had a working cab months ago…

…but I would’ve missed out the learning curve and spent more money!

Pics to follow, at some point, on the Top Gear – Amps & FX page.