September 4, 2008

So Liverpool has a gigantic mechanical spider in its midst as part of an artistic display the likes of which have never been seen on this scale in the UK before, albeit the marvellous Sultan's Elephant in London last year was a precursor of this weekend's entertainment.

Inevitably, then, the doom-watchers have hurriedly thrown on their hemp cradigans and scrawled emo masscara across their faces, as I note from this morning's edition of the Liverpool Daily Post newspaper:

"AS ONLOOKERS were delighted by the arrival of La Machine in Liverpool yesterday, an anxiety suppport group said that 'little thought' had been given to the distress a giant spider could cause arachnophobes.

"Anxiety UK said it had a 'great concern' over the 'potentially traumatic effect' the creature could have on people who are afraid of spiders.

"'This spider would be terrifying for someone with severe arachnophobia,' said a spokeswoman..."

Jesus H Christ.

I don't like being very cold, personally. Will there be 'great concern' for me this winter?