Mary Killen Mary Killen

Dear Mary: How can I play rugby for England?

From Dr Anthony Seldon

Q. I am keen to play for England at rugby. I am experienced (aged 60 and a bit), beefy (134lbs) and tall (1ft 61/2 inches shy of 7ft). The team didn’t have a great world cup and I think I could be their answer. What would you recommend?

A. You should drop this ambition. The public prefer their heroes to be good at only one thing. When Jeremy Vine, who had a perfectly good career as a broadcaster, took part in Strictly Come Dancing, it backfired on him as his public was confused. You have already established your proficiency at raising adolescent happiness levels through the medium of education and you should stick with that.

This is an extract from the Christmas issue of The Spectator. Subscribe here.

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