CITY DIARY

Analysts on Wall Street are horrified at a recent study by Financial Survey magazine, which purports to identify America's worst 100 stock-pickers. Based on information by Bloomberg Business News, the magazine names the analysts who made the worst investment recommendations in 1994.

NatWest Securities came third from bottom and was the worst performing British research house. Salomon Brothers, Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs also ranked among the league of shame.

The Americans have complained that the methodology is flawed. Even so, City tipsters may be concerned to hear that Bloomberg says such an exercise should be perfectly possible in London.

Following the success of Quaglino's, Londoners are facing a deluge of vast, factory-style showbiz canteens. Jasper Conran is planning another huge restaurant near Wardour Street. Belgo, the Belgian-style Camden eaterie where waiters wear monks' habits, is planning a 300-seat hyper-kitchen in Covent Garden. And Bruno Loubet, the chef behind Frith Street's Bistro Bruno, will soon open a 200-seat restaurant in Regent Street.

Now I hear Stephen Bull, the man behind the eponymous City Restaurant, has his eye on a West End location. The decision follows the success of his Fulham Road Restaurant, where chef Richard Corrigan recently won Michelin's three stars.

"I do not want to start a chain or set up a theme," says Mr Bull, who denies he wishes to follow Chez Gerard, Pelican and Break for the Border on to the market.

The row between Noel Edmonds, the game show presenter, and Lancaster city council over the failed Crinkley Bottom theme park is set to continue. Edmonds, who was slammed by the council following the closure of the park in November, is counter-suing, alleging breach of contract. If his Unique Group wins, the council could be liable to pay £3m-£5m.