Innuendo V

The three judges gathered to choose the winner of the competition. Four of the designs had been short listed and the models were positioned around the conference room. Professor Richard (Dick) Promac, author of Fabrics in Motion, opened the proceedings by saying "We can forget No.3. It has no character, it is drab and shapeless". Marcus Greeway, environment specialist, wondered why it was there anyway, but Judith Rainworthy, editor of the local newspaper which sponsored the competition, pointed out there were still people who preferred that style.

"Look at No.2. It is far more exciting; sophisticated, lightweight and impermeable". said the professor. But then he would say that thought Judith, noting his grey hair. "It's pure 1950's and looks dated. Anyway it would flap about in a strong wind, but I must say the interior is very smooth" she added coquettishly.

Marcus meanwhile was sniffing around No.1 with a glazed expression. "I do like this one. The shiny red plastic is an excellent material made all the more persuasive by the strategically placed transparent panels". "Too many fancy accessories that would get in the way" grunted the professor. Judith was tempted to say "in the way of what?" but thought better of it.

All three stood around No.4 and could not resist caressing the double textured white material surrounding the model. The professor looked inside to get a better appreciation and exclaimed. "This is a real classic with good all round protection". Judith was confident she would feel safe and secure inside and she knew of similar versions of the same style. The environmentalist was satisfied that there would be no condensation and that there was good ventilation. He believed the inherent smell of the fabric would add to the attraction but stressed that this was a personal view. The editor was bold enough to say some people might even sleep in it but she would not dare to put in print. They all agreed it had a real country flavour and the predictable banter about stables and hay lofts followed.

No 4 was acclaimed the winner and Judith left the two men so she could arrange the press coverage. The following day the local paper ran the story highlighting the events: Shelters for Lakeside Park Excite Judges. Student architects congratulated for excellent models and the imaginative use of weatherproof materials.

Robin