Bert,

an improvement due to American influence? now that *is* a contradiction in terms!

At least we can now get decent beer (Boddingtons, Tetleys, and Theakstons to name three) in New Zealand, so perhaps the days of good queen Bess are not lost forever. I'm holding out for Marstons Pedigree!

"The English, the English, the English are best, I wouldn't give tuppence for all of the rest" (Flanders & Swan)