Hugh Reilly: Persistence is pintless

THE last day of a school session is affectionately known as the teachers' new year. On this day, I normally retire to a teacher-free hostelry and enjoy a pint of Guinness with friends.

This year, against my better judgment, I agreed to join teaching colleagues for some drinks in a city centre venue.

It was demoralising to enter the portals of this pretentious pub only to see a crowd four deep at the bar. That sinking feeling c...