Gossip, my friends, is both a moral mission and a pleasure. It’s also something those in power can’t control | Van Badham

Workplace tea-spilling' is seen as unethical, says a new study. Tell that to the buzzing network that keeps my town on the rails

Word about town is that gossips are more trusted to help organise social events but less likely to be consulted for their ethics. By word", I mean a workplace study from the University of Leeds business school", and about town" means reported in the Times".

Gossips unethical? For shame! The insights of this particular study I shall personally table for moral judgment at the next convergence of my neighbourhood girl gang. Gossip, friends, is both a moral mission and our pleasure on the fortnightly-or-so mornings we - 30s to 50s, a rainbow of sexualities and various household compositions - convene at the local cafe, eat toast and information-share.

Van Badham is a Guardian Australia columnist