Hood’s Man at the Back reveals what he’s been up to during lockdown
Image: Stewart Bryden
PAUL FLETCHER IS A MANCHESTER-BORN ENTREPRENEUR AND RETAIL EXPERT, WHO’S BEEN LIVING IN SCOTLAND FOR THE PAST 19 YEARS. AS HOOD’S COLUMNIST, AND WITH HIS FINGER FIRMLY ON THE PULSE, HE SHARES WITH US HIS THOUGHTS AND MUSINGS…
When lockdown was announced, I had no idea the situation we suddenly found ourselves in would last for as long as it has. In line with government guidelines, I temporarily closed my commercial cleaning business, Clean Me Ltd, and prepared myself and my family for a few weeks of staying at home. At the time of putting pen to paper, that was nine weeks ago, and we have slowly settled into a new way of life. I have always been a grafter, so the thought of being at home with no work to do wasn’t a good one. Fortunately, however,
I have found a few ways to keep myself (and others) entertained during this surreal time.
I have always enjoyed cooking, and with a little more time on my hands, I’ve upped my game in the kitchen. Planning the menu, picking up supplies, and creating an Instagram-worthy meal every evening has become a daily habit— one which the wife is more than happy for me to continue with post-lockdown. With a bit of egging-on from my mates, I was encouraged to show off my culinary skills during a live Facebook session, too. Never one to shy away from the camera, coupled with the fact that people could do with a laugh, I proceeded to cook a full roast dinner live on Facebook.
Due to various cocktails consumed during the cook-off, I have to admit it certainly wasn’t the best meal I’ve ever made. That said, it was entertaining and took our minds off what was going on in the outside world. And thus, Fletch’s Boozy Sunday Brunch was born, where I share recipes and banter, along with a cracking playlist and, of course, plenty of libations, once a week.
Another addition to lockdown life is the Quarantine Quiz. Who would have thought that logging online with your mates on a Saturday night to answer trivia could be so much fun? As the weeks have gone on, we’ve escalated to fancy dress with our Disco Drag bingo night, which resulted in me giving birth to my female alter-ego, Ida Kayner. I perhaps enjoyed dressing as a woman a little too much as, when a mate suggested I run a 5k dressed as Ida, I said yes. One week later and £2600 raised for the NHS, I had no choice but to don my trainers and finest lippy for a run round the meadows. And you know what? I smashed it! Given the impact COVID-19 has had on the NHS, it was the least I could do to help raise some cash and was well worth the chafing...
Now, with messages from the government about moving forward, I hope that the economy can bounce back to be stronger than ever. I know firsthand the effects this situation can have on small businesses, and we aim to do everything we can to support those local to us in this time of need. When I look back at the last few weeks it has been a rollercoaster, but the positives are that I have been more connected to people, I have excelled in the kitchen, and spent time with my family that I would never have had the chance to if we weren’t in isolation. So, if you can, and I know it’s sometimes tricky, please focus on the good, and until we are told otherwise, stay home and stay safe.