Did you know the Mancunian Way in Manchester won the 1968 Concrete Society Awards? Oh yes, there is actually a plaque on the side of one of the pillars holding the motorway up, just before an intimidating looking impromptu skate park, and a dark quiet stale smelling place that tramps and druggies go to drink meths and shoot up.

The award apparantly recognises excellence in the use of concrete. They review stability, harmony, the properties of concrete being effectively exploited in the design, and value for money. The winners recieve a certificate and a specially designed plaque to put on their concete. And then they will be invited to The Concrete Society Awards Dinner where there are guest speakers and audio visual presentations about concrete. They also no doubt recieve a complimentary subscription to the CONCRETE magasine as well.

You think I'm joking? Visit http://www.concrete.org.uk/ for details of how to get back issues of CONCRETE magasine, get membership to The Concrete Society, and purchase books such as 'Concrete in Practise' or 'Concrete Simplified - designated mixes for structural applications'. You will also find a mention of the Mancunian Way in the Awards section.

Fascinating. Finally I can find out how to use Adiabatic Curing to increase the amount of Entrained Air in my Lift, I am a happy woman.