THE first hint of spring has put a positive bounce into the FYI girls' steps, writes JEAN TILLEY.

Despite the fact Helen cannot walk without wincing due to running too much, good health prevails with Claire climbing walls (fully sane) and me only answering to the name of 'Jean Balboa' or 'Bionic Girl'.

Exercise in all its forms is proving to be a great asset in our social lives.

What with getting in a cheeky run, a spot of weightlifting and a little spinning at lunch times, we're having to use up all the energy we're generating going out socialising to resume the balance of good versus very very bad red wine and chocolate naughtiness.

Of course, with such extreme amounts of exercise, to reach a state of equilibrium involves an extreme amount of partying.

Thank goodness, then, for some suitable events to keep us ladies suitably entertained.

Tonight (Thursday) we'll be heading down to Aura for Clearlake and The Archie Bronson Outfit (see Pick of the Week below).

Having had the luxury of listening to Clearlake's new album in advance, I don't think anyone going will be disappointed.

Tomorrow (Friday) night Cornish band Daft Monkeys will be playing at The Westgate while Tina Turner/Charlotte Church rockers Loose Fit entertain at The Ring of Bells.

For something entirely different, Mervyn Stutter will be singing songs for 'menopausal flower children' at the Brewhouse on Friday.

As a satirist, musician, song-writer and comic on Radio 4, Mr Stutter should provide a top evening of comedy.

On Saturday night Helen and I will be recovering from a ten-mile run so an evening of sitting down watching a nature show will undoubtedly be in order. For the rest of you Louis and the Iguanas play The Pen and Quill while The Flying Horse hosts Breeze.

n DON'T forget to cheer us FYI gals on next Sunday (April 2) when Team Gazette tackles the Taunton Half Marathon for SURE.