Archie goes to town

Today we set off into town on a mission to sort out our finances. But our bank nowadays (Santander) doesn’t do sort of advice like that. We used to meet with an advisor regularly who monitored accounts and suggested stuff - no longer a service. Though she did add on a .4% interest on one account. Big deal.

We then went along to another bank (high finance!) Virgin Money. Many years ago we both deposited £100 in order to get a VM card, so that we could go to the flash new, upmarket VM Lounge in town. It was great. Free coffees, fruit, soft drinks, biscuits, iPads to use, nice toilets, groovy decor and furniture. And, most importantly - NO MUZAK! We used it quite frequently. We also visited the one in Glasgow too, and the one in London it was set up like an aeroplane. All free, with our cards.

But we got letters to say we had to close the accounts. We thought we could just go in and close them and get the cash back. Not so simple. We were there for absolutely ages. But I think she mentioned about £3.40 in interest! Archie was more patient than I was we waited and waited. Then they said they couldn’t close it, we have to do it online. Duh!

So, not an altogether successful trip. But Archie loves it in town - he gets lots of pats and he knows which shops have got treats in. He stopped at one of JR’s most visited shops, and refused to pass. He dragged her in and to the table with the dog treats and water bowl.

When we eventually got out of VM, the bus was due, so we just came home. It was rammed - Archie has to be careful that he doesn’t get trodden on. It’s that time of year again. Although the Links are lovely and deserted (no school hulks hanging around) and the litter decreases dramatically - school holidays. All we need is some sun!