By the time I watched the final rehearsal in last night's session, I was looking at it on the TV screen. I have to say that vocally it didn't sound anything like as bad as I had expected.

The stage is much smaller than usual (would have been ideal for Love City Groove in 1995) and with airline seats, suitcases, stewardess's trolleys, and six performers on stage, it is a real mess.

Strangely for every two people who predict a disaster for Scooch, there is one who believes it can finish in the top five. Who knows maybe I will be made to eat me words. Doubt it.

The official opening reception was the usual no expense spared bash. The last three were held in wonderful outdoor venues, with fireworks displays and the works. Obviously the Finns could not take the risk which proved wise as the pleasant weather had turned arctic again by then with added rain.

Still, the Finlandia Hall is one of the biggest buildings I have frequented, so it all worked out. Most of the performers were there, swamped by press and fans, while I was enjoying the food and alcohol hospitalities