I've had the company I work for say that they can't manage without me for two weeks and saying they'll cancel my holiday.

I've smiled, said no problem and told them how much I'll need to cover my lost holiday to be replaced - suddenly the pressing urgency doesn't become quite so neccessary.

Generally I take the view that a company should consider what they'd do if you're hit by the (proverbial) bus and are laid up in hospital - and do that.

Frankly, if I'm so indispensable someone can't manage without me for 2 weeks, they are not paying me enough...

Commiserations though Smirnoff.

BAH