ONE definition I have heard of columnists is that they hide in the hills until the battle is over and then emerge to bayonet the wounded.

So, in returning to the subject of the downfall of the "Millionaire" trio I shall start by acknowledging that, prior to starring in the show, the teacher, soldier and nurse were respectable members of the community.

I was transfixed by the documentary shown on Easter Monday, which illustrated how greed can completely take over the senses. The whole scam is apparently going to be turned into a film, but I believe the "Major" fraud will also become compulsory viewing for psychology students.

As the show went on it was clear that Major Charles Ingram could literally see pound signs before his eyes. My interpretation of his wife's worried looks was that she felt they had reached the point where he should take the money and run. But, unfortunately for the conspirators, Major Ingram was enjoying himself too much. Not only did he want as much money as possible, he also wanted to "showboat", to bask in the limelight.

I certainly detected a look of glee on his face as he finally plumped for an answer, knowing full well it was right all along. As the money mounted up I thought, at least Dick Turpin wore a mask.

Now in disgrace, the Major may well be looking for alternative employment but I suggest acting might not be suitable. Highlighted in the programme, the coughs and muffled shout of "No" from his helper seemed damning, but I found the bizarre behaviour of the Major the biggest giveaway. His strategy seemed to be to "guess" his way through, but as he blundered his way to the jackpot he seemed to show no concern over the massive amount of money he stood to lose.

The programme pulled in an estimated 17 million viewers, the biggest TV audience for a factual show since the funeral of the Princess of Wales. It is likely to make millions for the makers, Celador, and the subsequent film should also prove profitable.

I still feel there was no need for the case to come before the criminal courts at massive cost to the public in terms of money and police and court resources. I suspect that, without the trial, the Millionaire fraud would not have generated such interest so can I repeat my call for Celador to donate an amount to cover the public costs. Or perhaps they could use it to provide annual bursaries for students of psychology or acting.

ON Thursday local elections will be held across the North-East and, although I do not belong to any political group, that doesn't necessarily mean I support independent candidates over the established parties.

I would urge readers to look carefully at each candidate and decide which one will do the best for their ward and town as a whole - irrespective of any political affiliation.

Sadly, many people will not bother to vote and that is disappointing.

The war in Iraq should bring home to everyone how lucky we are in Britain to live in a democracy.

On a more local level, there is little point in complaining about council services if you fail to take the opportunity to hold to account through the ballot box those who are paid to represent you.

Published: 25/04/2003