There is little doubt that at times a measure of anti-Americanism exists in our country — across the wider world also, for that matter. When saying this I refer, of course, to the United States, not to the entire continent.

To some extent there has always been some discord between our ‘two nations divided by a common language’ as was said perceptively by, I believe, George Bernard Shaw; divided, also to a degree, by history – after all they did fight a war against us for their independence.

In terms of geography and meteorology, as well, there is a vast difference – theirs is a colossal land with climates varying from the tropical to, almost, the Arctic. Ann and I have made several visits during the past 20 years, our son Matthew, daughter-in-law, Avisa, and their three children having lived (and still residing) in New York for work purposes during this time.

We enjoy our stays with them – their company and their hospitality have made many a treasured memory. Although sadly, but inevitably, there has been no opportunity for us all to get together during the covid crisis.

To us, however, there is something in the American way of life and overall character which does not quite gel; perhaps, to a degree, it is their insularity; with the exception of North Korea (where the unfortunate citizens are given no option) it is doubtful if there is another race on earth with less interest, and knowledge, of the outside world, than that which dwells in the 50 states which constitute ‘the land of the free’.

Yet, despite their apparent lack of interest in the peoples, cultures and ways of life of the 200-plus countries which are to be found around the globe, the inhabitants of a multitude of these sovereign states have, conversely, long been fascinated by many facets of American customs and values.

Assuredly we are not immune from such influence in our islands. So many ‘Americanisms’ have crept into our precious language – the horrible ‘hi’ and ‘ok’ being well to the fore; this is probably inevitable as English, worldwide, is the principle – and largely universal – language ‘spoken’ by computers; sadly, however, it is the transatlantic version of our noble tongue which holds sway in this field. The insightful words of playwright Shaw have come home to roost.

Then there is the culture, the grip on our eating and leisure habits which have crossed the ocean; McDonalds and KFC, Hollywood films, jazz and rap music, and so much more shapes the way we live. Fair enough, we are free to embrace which we like and ignore that which we do not.

There are customs, too, some of which I detest. Hallowe’en, imported from the States, is my supreme ‘Bête Noire’; to me it is an abomination; the glorification of witches and devils, and the manifest celebration of much that is evil. It goes further; a vast crop of pumpkins and suchlike, not grown for the benefit of people in a world where so many go hungry, but rather to be purged into the making of hideous lanterns; the entire cynical charade would surely not be missed, except by greengrocers, supermarkets and others seeking to make a ‘fast buck’.

It is, though, time for a touch of positivity. For we in Britain have taken to our hearts a tradition which is celebrated on the third Sunday in June – Father’s Day.

Mother’s Day – or Mothering Sunday as is the correct title – is an ancient British custom (whether solely, or not, I am unsure) going back centuries.

The honouring of the male parent, however, began in the United States and, to me, is a most welcome addition to the relatively limited number of annual days which we celebrate formally and when gifts are bestowed.

Amongst my good fortunes in life is that my dear wife Ann has blessed us with four fine sons. Miserable, moaning toad that I am, they never forget me on the day devoted to fathers – even grumpy ones.

All send cards, each of which represent their individual personalities; this is so on every occasion. There will be a sentimental offering, one of humour, a quite formal greeting and an artistic contribution. Even if they did not sign them, I would be aware of whom had forwarded which.

What they also send, or drop off, are life giving elixirs with the medical name ‘single malt’, plus health enhancing solids made by those pharmaceutical giants, Thorntons and Cadburys.

When in office President Trump enacted sanctions against many nations, denying them exports from his country. It is a relief he never made any attempt to interfere with the custom of goodwill and bounty which comes the way of we Dads every June. Long may it continue.