Each week I use this space to share my five thoughts – the good, the bad and the ugly.

But I’m not selfish, so I’m also very happy to donate the space to guest writers to have their say. Write to me using the contact details below.

1. I received some shocking news at the weekend. I’m told we’re all slowly turning into women – apparently ever-increasing levels of oestrogen in our water supplies mean men are becoming less manly by the day and will, in time, become women. From what I’m told it’s all to do with women being on the pill. Who knows, give it another 100 years or so and perhaps women won’t need men at all.

2. On a similar, but I assume unrelated subject, women’s boobs are getting bigger. I was given this remarkable news by female colleagues who have been following the online competition, Star in a Bra. Sadly News Shopper’s entrant is no longer in the running. For politically correct reasons I will refrain from commenting further.

3. I just want to say, the British Library is an absolutely brilliant institution. I signed up as a member just this week and prior to this had no idea just what a wonderful place it is. Not only is the building and its collection mind-boggling, but the staff are equally brilliant, friendly and helpful. And it offers a completely free service. I simply cannot recommend it highly enough.

PREVIOUS 5 THOUGHTS:

4. Does everyone become more afraid of heights as they got older? I only ask because years ago I climbed trees, swang from upstairs balconies and wouldn’t think twice about looking out of a high-rise window. But now, my knees wobble even thinking about it. Why does this fear develop like this between your 20s and your 50s?

5. Thank goodness the betting bug has never truly bitten me. I know nothing about horses, but one small tip led to a minor win on a race at Thursday’s Gold Cup. By Friday I felt like a punter who could do no wrong – ah well, easy come, easy go as they say. Sorry Jim, you shouldn’t have listened to me.

Send in your 5THOUGHTS by email to aparkes@london.newsquest.co.uk, send on Twitter to @parkestheeditor or send through Facebook to facebook.com/newsshopper