But if Mr Brown is the favourite son, Mr Blair, despite being younger, enjoys a more avuncular role, exploiting his slight distance from the party to tease it, lecture it, and tell it one or two home truths.

ECONOMIST: Browned off with Blair?

Miller has proven on the international stage with Scotland that he is adept at playing in that lone striker role and he can last the distance.

BBC: Forward thinking from Walter Smith

Gosling, a serious fellow who usually plays alcoholics or drug addicts or murderers, refuses to distance himself from Jacob by parodying the role.

NEWYORKER: Just the Sex

While there has been some talk about using these bags on a regular basis for long-distance bulk water deliveries, they seem to have a clear role to play in emergencies.

FORBES: Water Emergencies: Time for New Plans and Technology

While Evans insisted on keeping a distance from the islanders, the Cretans have embraced him wholeheartedly, recognising his role in creating their tourist industry.

ECONOMIST: Bullshot