Turning the page

Cheltenham was bustling with early autumn optimism. So much so that it was hard to see many signs of national mourning at all.
Our main objective was to buy some kitchenware from JL. They did have a portrait of the late Queen prominently displayed. As usual, the shop was more like how I imagine a personal shopping experience would be, as there were so few shoppers and so many staff.

Shopping of any kind will be in short supply on Monday when the nation grinds to a halt for a bank holiday. The second extra one this year. I think Edinburgh already has a long weekend on this Monday? Will they take Tuesday in lieu?

If all face to face commerce ceases on Monday does that also apply to online purchases? Christmas Day when U.K. shops are closed, is always a very busy day in the virtual shops!

Tonight the new King has driven himself to Highgrove in Gloucestershire. I can see why it essential that he needs to rest. I am less sure about the royal family squabbling about who wears which uniforms at the funeral and what are they going to do with all those palaces and residences. I also feel concerned for the Clarence House staff being told that all their jobs are now at risk just as they are working flat out to assist their new King.

My blip shows the photo gallery in a prominent Cheltenham bookshop commemorating the town’s famous Literary Festival.