Punters play the field with Charlie's capers

WHILE business folk, PAYE workers and lobbyists fret ahead of next Wednesday’s Budget, others have more important issues to ponder.

What colour tie will Finance Minister choose? Will he signal trenchant support for the horsey set by donning a cravat? Line up with the workers by sporting an open-neck shirt? Or will he signal a return to traditional values by wearing a priestly Roman collar? These are just some of the key questions which the bookmakers Paddy Power urge their customers to consider having a flutter on ahead of Wednesday afternoon when Mr McCreevy will present his sixth consecutive budget to Dail Eireann.

Some people call this one of the most boring moments of the year, for others the suspense is almost too much to take. With large cuts expected, people can have a punt and make money while they still can, a spokesman for the bookmakers said last night.