VERDICT

Nobody was looking forward to telling Andrew the outcome of yesterday's Family Meeting.

When the time came to break the news, Wilson grew visibly nervous, putting on a protective anorak and a hard hat before venturing outside to confront the bird.

 

Dave the Pig accompanied him in his role of Guard Piglet, although I think he'd have preferred not to be there, and all the insects and younger toys wisely remained indoors for their own safety.

 

I think Andrew may have guessed which way the decision had gone, as he belligerently strutted out to confront Wilson – the new sign on the beach hut door might have been a clue. 

 

He strode up to Wilson and began to Guilt Trip him, reminding him of what mates they'd been back in the day.

 

Byron tried a conciliatory approach, holding out the lunch box and explaining, 'We prepared this for you so you're not hungry on your trip.'

 

Andrew strode aggressively over to where Byron had placed the box and fluttered up to grasp the handle.

 

After a moment's vigorous flapping, he announced, 'I can't lift it, I'm too weak from malnourishment. What have you put in it anyway – lead weights?'

 

Byron replied that it was full of Cheesy Wotsits, and some Honey Sandwiches from Polly.

 

Andrew grudgingly conceded that he might just give it a once-over if anyone could be bothered to undo the catch for him.

 

An hour later, after Andrew had departed – leaving behind nothing but an empty lunch box, a bad atmosphere and a small pile of guano – Wilson announced cheerfully, 'Well, that didn't go too badly; at least nobody was maimed or lost an eye…'