1. That with sufficient grit, determination, alcohol and a sufficiently inebriated crowd, we can achieve the impossible
2. That nobody should ever, ever, on any account, consume a Prawn Kebab that's been left out for the day then barbecued in the dark.
That's right - as we geared up for a return to the Racehorse (which is now surely the home of some of the more cockahoop receptions we've been blessed with), news came through the wireless telegraph that Markie was laid low.
"Never mind", we thought. "Given his iron constitution and masters degree in self-medication (as evidenced by the New Years Eve performance which he sadly can't remember), he'll be fit as a fiddle by showtime" ejaculated Bernie in remarkably realistic prose.
But it was not to be. Barely able to stand, having not eaten in five days and visibly reeling from the shock of the elevated sewerage charges levied by South West Water in lieu of his loo, he had to hold a trembling hand up in defeat.
After much soul searching, and a massive kick up the arse from Mary from Tipperary, we decided to press on as a threesome. And once we'd got that out of our systems, it was off to the Racehorse.

Despite initial nerves, we hit the ground running. Four songs in, during 'Gloria', and it started to become apparent that we might just get away with it. Two sets in, and a couple of impromptu stage invasions later, it became clear that the Racehorse Massive had drunk enough to almost guarantee it.

And when, apropos of nothing and having not played it in over a year, we decided to launch into 'Sally Maclalane' in honour of our Gaelic Mistress, the place went mental and we knew we'd be able to leave with our heads held high. Phew!
There's a bit of a video from earlier in the night to be found on YouTube here (thanks Claire!), if you want some insight into how we sound 'UnMarked'. And if you want to make a contribution to the 'Markie Get Well' fund, Jamesons is £2.30 a shot down the Exeter, he'll be there by next Wednesday.
See you soon.
Love you byeeeee!
X
- posted from a wireless telegraph