Coward's approach connects to a more recent, and outre gay media figure: that of Boy George

Live THE EGG AND PETE TOWNSHEND MUSEUM OF MODERN ART OXFORD

DJ CULTURE

Harry Hill's humour may be quirky, but it's certainly not exclusive. It even works on Americans. Vanessa Thorpe meets the man who subverted stand-up

A nervous breakdown and bankruptcy haven't stopped ex-Housemartin Norman Cook becoming the hottest DJ in the UK. Karen O'Brien meets the infamous 'Fatboy Slim'

this writing business: A new comedy, a commission from the NT, and a musical with the Pet Shop Boys wunderkind playwright Jonathan Harvey is on a roll, says Tobias Jones

A short history of some of pop's unsung female singers

Homosexuality was once the love that dared not speak its name. Some gay men preferred it that way.

FAN'S EYE VIEW NO 248 bristol city BY DAVE MASSEY

About a Boy by Nick Hornby Gollancz, pounds 15.99 No More Mister Nice Guy by Howard Jacobson Jonathan Cape, pounds 15.99

Our Foreign Secretary has a message for the rest of the world: British design is brilliant. But, says Nonie Niesewand, somebody else needs to listen - us

ROBIN COOK unveiled a collection of designer gizmos in his office yesterday which he is going to sell around the world.

The media are gathering, the mobiles are ringing, the salmon buffet is ready. It's the big pop event of the month. No, not the Spice Girls, but the Monks of Downside, gearing up to release their latest album. Janie Lawrence pulls up a pew.

I am a consultant working in Accident and Emergency medicine. As such, I have to appear smart, yet my medical practice can involve blood splashes and other body fluids. I detest suits, especially jackets, and work in a fairly warm environment. I tend to wear M&S black trousers and cheap, white, short-sleeve shirts and tie. I would be happy to lose the tie, but it is expected of me. It can get in the way when I'm stitching. Could you suggest a smart yet practical and washable solution to my problem.