SO-CALLED experts the length and breadth of the land have been making good money by pointing out that certain days this month (such as "Blue Monday") might make people a bit miserable.

This is, of course, mainly due to cold weather (funny that, in winter), and the fact that the festive season has been left behind.

Given that background, and the fact that Christmas Day fell exactly one month ago, The Diary would like to share the following gem, which has landed in our office.

"Does it seem like forever to Christmas? Do you know how many Xmas (sic) Shopping Days you have left?" it trumpets. "To retain some of that Christmas cheer in a dull and cold January, get yourself along to the Excel Toy Fair and get a sneak preview of what's hot for Christmas 2007."

The Diary is well aware that the toy industry traditionally holds events early in the year, previewing predicted seasonal best-sellers.

Even so, a PR campaign based on how long it is to Christmas 2007 (11 months, to be precise) is enough to make the blood run cold.

AFTER two national racism rows were sparked by reality TV shows, The Diary wonders who would be willing to raise their head above the television parapet.

First there was Jade Goody, who faced accusations of racism over her bullying, boorish performance on Celebrity Big Brother. Quick on her heels followed former York public schoolgirl Lucy Buchanan on Channel 4's Shipwrecked.

Her endorsement of slavery, the British Empire, and her professed hatred of fat and ugly people catapulted her onto the front pages and drew the wrath of the nation.

But despite the furore surrounding these latest reality TV contestants, Channel 4 and Endemol (makers of Big Brother) are still looking for more young people eager for easy fame.

An email passed to The Diary asks: "Are you about to do something for the first time? Have you reached a point in your life where things are about to change?"

The broadcaster wants people aged between 14 and 19 to take part in the filming, which will focus on a major event in their life.

It adds: "If you are facing a first in your life in January, and would like to document the whole thing from before to after, then please give us a call."

Form an orderly queue now.