Trevor paused. No-one appeared to be listening. They'd turned-off, and were chatting away with each other and drinking their glasses of sickly sherry (the done thing at send-offs). Trevor flushed.
They're not bothered, he thought. None of them. I'm nothing to them. I'll walk out of here and no-one will bat an eyelid. This is what life is all about. He took a swig of his 'cream' and piped up again.

"You're all dispensable you know. And it will be you before you know it; stood here; nothing to show for it; nothing to look forward to; nothing."

At this point Mr Shaw stepped in, a card in one hand and a gift-wrapped parcel in the other.

"Excuse me everyone", he shouted, "excuse me! Could I have your attention? Could I have your attention P L E A S E? I'd just like to say a few words....." he managed to draw the dutifully assembled crowd's attention. They had all previously signed the card with the assorted, typical one-liners which Mr Shaw proceeded to read out.

Bye Trev - Happy Loafing Around - Gary
So long buses - Hello bus pass! Love from Carole xx
It won't be the same without you. It will be bettter! Dan
How many years? You get less for robbery. PJ ....