Ros Dodd has a request…… Can I, first of all, beg you to set aside judgement over my choice of television viewing: I know it’s pretty low-grade, but it gives me pleasure.

It also gives me a lump in my throat and, at times, eyes that are far from dry. I’m talking about X Factor, that cornucopia of talent, tantrums and tears. Little of the first, you might argue, but certainly bucketfuls of the last.