To all my concerned friends and fans. 

As most of you are aware I am currently going through what is technically known as a 2 stage hip revision.  For years I have had an infection in the metalwork of my right hip and no amount of oral anti biotic seemed able to cure it.  To make matters worse the hip became progressively more and more painful so that even with crutches walking became almost impossible.  My surgeon decided that the only option left open to me was to remove all the metalwork from the hip then treat me with intravenous antibiotic for 2 months to clear the infection and put in a totally new hip joint.  The first operation was carried out on 24th November and I have had no right hip for the last 2 1/2 months so can only get around using a walking frame.  Being house bound for that length of time has been tedious at times but it is almost over as I go back into hospital on 11th February to have my new hip.  Once I have convalesced from this op I'll be 'raring to go' again.  I am looking forward to getting back on the convention scene ASAP but the medics are concerned about possible dislocations whilst traveling so I think it will be May before I can start accepting personal appearance work.