On Monday we had a champagne reception at the Centre and the usually tranquil space was transformed into a vibrant hub as guests squeezed in and quaffed on the fizzy stuff. Our guest of honour was Stephen Alambritis, the leader of Merton Council and former FSB (Federation of Small Businesses) spokesperson. Local press joined us too and took photographs of the upbeat event.

Having relocated from Nuffield Health two months ago, this was the first opportunity I'd found to officially 'open' the new practice. Previously called Fix Your Fears I'd re-named my business The Hypnotherapy & Natural Health Centre on moving to Durnsford Road, and as a result I've had loads of enquiries from people wanting to find out how they can change their life with hypnotherapy. As the New Year is likely to be busy with 'Resolutioners' I thought we'd better get on and celebrate before 2010 slipped away.

Stephen Alambritis was good company and chatted easily to all the guests. Seeming in no great hurry to rush off, he showed interest in the experiences of local business owners and even mentioned the controversial Vodafone phone mast which appeared without warning on the corner of Revelstoke Road and Durnsford a few weeks back. As welcome, and as obvious, as Japanese Knotweed in a rose garden, this monstrosity continues to exercise the residents and local working folk.

After a short speech, a group photo-call and a shot outside the Centre for the local press, the Leader went on his way. Having waved him off I returned to my mince pie and fizz, and found that the conversation had turned to more important matters....his shoes! Everyone it seems, bar James MacKenzie, who must have had his mind on higher things, had noticed the leaders fancy footwear....Good on you, I say. As one who has been compared to Imelda Marcos in the footwear stakes, I see a passion for shoes as a positive thing!