The poles in question are the tent poles. They wouldn’t fit in the case, so are wrapped in a Wyken Parish Church cloth bag sticking out of my shoulder bag. They did raise an eyebrow at security – but a short explanation of their importance in our patriotic excursion and they were through the x-ray machine with no more questions asked. We’re now in the airport Starbuck’s waiting for the flight to board. Despite remembering the poles and gaffa tape I’ve realised I’ve forgotten the string and cable-ties. I wonder if they’ll sell any in Claire’s Accesories, WH Smith’s or the Duty Free shop?