From the sublime...

To the ridiculous!

After yesterday's lovely Christmas pudding blip, today I'm sharing with you the Christmas tree outside my local parade of shops.

Each year a small tree appears here between the litter bin and the post box.

Yesterday it was propped up against the litter bin, today it is at least free standing. There are some battery operated lights, but they don't seem to be working.

However, what the tree lacks in pazazz, is more than compensated for by the shopkeeper's in the parade.

Top of the list is the delightful family who run the launderette. For six quid you get a service wash and dry, all items folded, socks in pairs and some great banter. Mr P is a Manchester United season ticket holder, Mrs P always looks glamorous and their two sons are an absolute credit to them, both being polite, charming and hard working.

Second in the league are the 3 partners and their staff in the Costcutter supermarket, hardworking, open long hours and always helpful.

Third place goes to the family who run the newsagents. Thanks for giving me your last Rolo today!!

I prefer to support local businesses rather than the high street giants.

Fourth is Ladbrokes where the friendly staff always lay on a good spread for all big race meetings and are happy to help with placing (mostly losing) bets.

I've never been in the self defence/keep fit studio, hairdressers, barbers or the doggy grooming parlour. I've yet to cross the threshold of the pub, the curry house and the kebab shop.