TIMEPIECE

Anyone needing a new watch might consider a moonphase model. Timex make one for about £30 which is water resistant to 30 metres, and in addition to time and date shows the phases of the moon in a window on the face. Thus one can tell at a glance if it is spring tides or neaps. The battery lasts for about a year.

BASIC RATIONS

Consider the Scottish oatcake. Nairns or Patersons are sold in 300g (10.6oz) packets, each containing 4 plastic sealed packs of 6 oatcakes, measuring 4mm thick and 70mm diameter. They keep for weeks in a dry locker and are not excessively sweet. There is no need to spread anything on them. A pack of six at regular intervals during the day is very sustaining and no washing up.