It is a bit of an issue, the whole national anthem thing! Especially in this age of Wokeferatu and duckspeakers who insist that nothing nice can or should be said about our country. One suspects that, given the chance to chose a new national anthem. they would go for Elton John and Bernie Taupins' Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word.

The likeliest contenders, Rule, Britannia! (James Thomson, Thomas Arne, c1740) and Land Of Hope And Glory (A C Benson, Edward Elgar, 1902) are considered too imperialistic. The Kings' favourite hymn, I Vow To Thee My Country (Sir Cecil Spring Rice, Gustav Holst, 1921) expresses noble sentiments, but in an undeniably Christian context unsuitable for a secular, multi-faith society.

I must admit, given the vicissitudes the country has undergone over the last couple of centuries, I too would look to Elton John (surely our de facto national musical bard) and suggest I'm Still Standing!

Obviously, as a proud Yokshireman, my national anthem is Ilkley Moor. However, speaking realistically, it should be a lyric and tune that virtually everyone knows. So, stand to attention, strike up the band, and sing:

"'Ere we go, 'ere we go, 'ere we go..."