I just had to wait ten minutes for someone to answer the phone at the TFL lost property office. I am a very patient man, and not one for getting irate, but even I was starting to feel slightly irritated by the ring-ringing in my ear.

Then a man answered. And he is, without doubt, the nicest man that I've ever encountered. I have just spoken to this fella for more than ten minutes about Leyton Orient, Gresley Rovers, play-off football (who says football is pointless - it helps you make friends much easier for one), various London boroughs and alcohol. We exchanged mobile numbers at the end of the call. I think I've just made a new best friend. I've got a warm glow about me now.

Sometimes, the people in this city, and this country, make me so, so proud to be part of them.