Eeee Pet.

Old John and Richard's visit will be covered in more detail once the war artist has delivered his final sketches of the action. In the meantime here's a photo taken in the shadowy light of the Abruzzo dawn moments before the fierce battle between Hannibal and his Roman adversary Convolvulus began.

Observe how, despite freezing weather and layer of icey snow, the Balearic slingers and Numidians have refused to wear anything other than the skimpiest little dresses. A similar attitude is displayed by the womenfolk of Tyneside on Friday and Saturday nights, though they throw more combat dice in melee obviously.