Disappointment on Bennachie...

Bennachie - a distinctive Aberdeenshire landmark topped by an ancient hill fort

So on Sunday afternoon Gail and I went out for a walk up Bennachie with her friend Ian the oil man, home for a week from Dubai.

In such a glorious sunny October weather, you would have thought nothing could possibly spoil the day.

You would be wrong.

When Ian stopped for a sandwich half way down I minded my manners and waited patiently. (I hope that Michael is reading this...)

Then, I caught a whiff of Marks and Spencer's salt marsh reared lamb on the gentle autumn breeze, and moved just a wee bit closer to Ian.

Now I know that Ian is missing his two Westies, Florrie and Lucy, who are currently lodging with his son Jonathan whilst Ian is working abroad.

So I was utterly confident he would be unable to resist my pleading eyes, framed by my cute, fuzzy little face.

Oh I am so disappointed to have to report that he was able to resist, and parted with only a microscopic quantity of lamb, then tried to fob me off with these.

Yes, hula hoops. Life is so unfair.

But the story may yet have a happy ending. Gail, whose favourite meat is lamb, has absolutely promised me that we will go down to 'Markies', only a ten minute walk from home, and seek out this special delicacy as soon as possible and that I will be allowed a decent portion.

Please cross your paws that this really happens.