Unlike Ian Fleming and John le Carré, Len Deighton was never an intelligence professional, but his masterly touch is just as sure as theirs, says William Cook

February 28th is the 50th anniversary of the first episode of On the Buses. Roger Lewis pays tribute to the creepiest of all sitcoms

American novelist Patricia Highsmith (1921–1995) was also an accomplished artist. Here she turns her hand to Venice in December: when the fair-weather friends of Venice are gone, the working city surfaces

Michael Cockerell was the man who persuaded Lord Deedes – and his friend Denis Thatcher – to step in front of the camera for the 1994 BBC film ‘Dear Bill’

From cards to restaurants to flowers, commerce has killed St Valentine, says Tanya Gold

Gyles Brandreth offers some advice for romantics

An extract from Auberon Waugh's column, 'Rage'. Here he ponders the gender of Marshal Tito, the Yugoslav War and the reintroduction of National Service.

Tony Gould gives an account of his experience in an iron lung

It’s famed for an archduke’s assassination and the 1990s siege. But don’t forget the Olympic-level skiing at bargain prices, says Benedict King

After an extended absence, the great Barry Cryer returns to host John Motson, William Keegan and Lady Colin Campbell at The Oldie’s February Lunch.