I was one of 650 engaged in a parliamentary simulation. A voice at the front of the hall shouted instructions and each of us then took our place as instructed. We’d just completed a commons revolt, which left only four “MPs” in the central square, with everyone else braying at the sidelines. Ed Milliband “deposed” David Cameron as prime minister by taking the podium at the front.

While I quite enjoyed the simulations, I was becoming frustrated not knowing everyone’s names. I therefore decided to make an effort and befriend those standing closest to me. I started off gently with a name guessing game.

“You’ll never get my name”, said a young man in his twenties. I was convinced he was called Nick, but eventually I was forced to admit that he was right. How would I have ever reached Parbold without his help?