Talk of the Town: Artist Frank has a nose for news

IT is said that life imitates art.

If that's true Scots painter Frank To may be blessed with the gift of foresight.

The artist evidently has a finger on the pulse after the launch of his first major art show for two years - depicting scenes with mediaeval plague doctors - was swiftly followed by news reports of a breakthrough in a cure for the bubonic plague by scientists at Albany Medical College in New York.

"This exhibition was inspired by the growing incidence of biological threats and viral pandemics arising over recent years and it's fascinating to hear that scientists have just discovered new ways to protect against such diseases," said Mr To.

"Perhaps I sniffed a cure for bubonic plague in the air."

The Falkirk artist's exhibition is showing at The Leith Gallery in Edinburgh until the end of the month.

Something fishy about bookies' information

THE SNP appears a "racing certainty" to win next week's Scottish Parliament election, according to bookies Paddy Power.

But any idea that it was all down to the fame and reputation of the party's leader was immediately dispelled by the next sentence in Paddy Power's press release referring to the First Minister as Alex Hammond.

Putting damper on things

TALKING of bets, bookies may not be smiling as forecasters predict rain could mar the royal wedding.

William Hill has not only cut its odds for rain to be falling when Kate arrives for the ceremony from 7/2 to 5/2, but has also had to slash the odds about the happy couple having to appear under an umbrella when they greet the crowds from the Buckingham Palace balcony.

At least punters betting on the rain will have a reason to be cheerful.

Pop question, not cork

On the subject of weddings a survey out to promote a new Champagne-cork-sound app has a warning/prediction for any would be Capital Romeos.

According to the research women expect their man to pop the question exactly two years and five months into a relationship. The signs to look out for include window shopping for engagement rings and the dropping of hints.

That is, of course, if you're not too busy downloading the latest app to notice.