THE banker has little in common with the lager lout, the profession generally attracting individuals rarely given to excesses of emotion. However, the sedate profession received some unwanted notoriety on a United Airlines flight when an American investment banker, refused alcohol, flew into a drunken rage. The ensuing fracas landed him in court this week where he pleaded guilty to "causing an affray". He faces a £32,000 bill for his fellow passengers' airline tickets and the prospect of six months in the slammer when sentence is passed in May.

The less than amiable banker apparently performed unmentionable bodily functions on a food trolley, an action which his lawyer said was redeemed only by using airline napkins as a "personal hygiene accessory." It could never happen on aircraft sporting the £8 million italicised shamrock! All the same better check out the profession of that sober suited individual in the adjoining seat!