CHEER up. Philip Hammond’s Spring Statement predicts slightly higher economic growth than expected.

If that news doesn’t have you bouncing for joy then you might find yourselves in the chancellor’s bad book.
Mr Hammond attacked Labour as being "Eeyores" for "relentlessly talking Britain down". In contrast, he said, his approach was more akin to "Tigger".

Comparing himself to one of the most unremittingly upbeat characters in literature was a bit rich coming from one of the most sombre chancellor’s in living memory. It is also worth noting that Tigger was regarded by Winnie the Pooh and his pals as a loveable buffoon who had an annoying habit of making overblown claims that he struggled to live up to.

Still, with no tangible announcements to make the Chancellor made vague promises of better things to come - forget Brexit divorce bills, the NHS crisis, housing shortages and so on.

For anyone who has had an operation cancelled this winter – shut up and be happy.

If you are worried about how you and your loved ones will be cared for in old age – shut up and be happy.

Struggling to see evidence that the north-south divide is being narrowed – shut up and be happy.

Dismayed that the government just axed bursaries for trainee nurses – shut up and be happy.

The end of austerity may be in sight for ‘Tigger’ Hammond but his jam tomorrow approach does nothing for those craving a bit of honey today.