OFF THE VINE: It's finally time to get that chequebook out for the boys, Olly

The Economist sales team has been clattering and clamouring for a

pay rise since they won the Sales Team of the Year prize at the Agency

of the Year Awards last month.

But advertising boss Olly Comyn is steadfastly refusing to authorise a

hike unless MEDIA gives The Economist public recognition of the win.

Poor Olly, however, is at his wit's end because the din from all that

clattering and clamouring is beginning to be too much.

So to help him out and get the sales guys a pay hike, Vine graciously

applauds The Economist for winning the Sales Team of the Year accolade

at the Agency of the Year Funny Awards.

However, Vine now expects something in return: for Rupert Harrow's

personal underpants, which will be put up in a prominent position at

this year's Asian Advertising Awards in March, before being auctioned

off to the highest bidder.

Other winners at the Funny Awards: Saatchi & Saatchi for most creative

agency in Asia; Leo Burnett for "agency we'd most like to work for" and

Star TV's Susan McAteer for best regional salesperson.