My wife is with my daughter who is one week overdue with our first grandchild. They live in Lincoln just south west of Christchurch.

Due to the situation and the Mayor of Christchurch's request for no visitors to tax their already disrupted infrastructure, and the airport closed to non-rescue traffic (most understandable).

When I explained this to Singapore Airlines they were absolutely superb and arranged to refund my ticket. What's more, they have waived their Admin Fee due to the circumstances.

Manchester Airport however, were more than happy to cancel my booking but for the whole fee. Being sensitive souls and realising that I could not travel because I'd be barred from arrival at Christchurch to see my family, they've made sure that they were OK and not only got the full fee, they have the space to sell again. Caveat Emptor I suppose.

When I used to work there, the airport was covered in signs saying 'The North's Favourite Airport' - well, for me at least, they've cured that.

But what a contrast between this international airline and a bunch of petty bureaucrats.

Well done Singapore Airlines.

My thoughts are with my family and all those affected by this tragedy.

Manchester Airport? Well you're just being Manchester Airport . . . the North's favourite.