Could a doctor help ?

One element of a Clarkson solution could be time off to reflect on his behaviour, and to have the two hip-replacements he needs. He was first diagnosed with osteo-arthritis in November 2004, and told it would be better to wait for the operation, as, in those days, the artificial joints were only expected to last fifteen years.

In April, Clarkson turns 55, and the question of which lasts longer, the hips or the man, becomes a closer-run thing. Three months would be a sensible estimate for two operations and recuperation. Series 23, under a new executive producer, could have films set up to make in July/August.