I'm writing this on a cold and frosty morning waiting for the sunrise to give us a little bit of warmth.
At New Year it is customary to look back over the last year and look forward to what is to come.
Let's be honest, 2020 was pretty shit. Covid-19 has hit the world with a vengeance. There are lots of things I could say about the government's handling of how it affects the UK, but it wouldn't help the situation.
Now vaccines are becoming available there is a glimmer of hope that the situation will improve. Only a glimmer at present, but still a few months and you never know.
Blyth is now in Tier 4. It basically means that the rules are tighter and "non-essential" shops are closed. It means that my model shop is closed for in-shop sales, although we will deliver, or post, or offer "click and collect", but nothing replaces being able to see the item you're buying. It is however another nail in the coffin of town centre shopping.
There has been much trumpeting about government money being released for "High Streets" in general, but will it be too late? Unfortunately I fear so.
Anyway, enough, I wish you all a happy, peaceful and above all safe a healthy New Year.
See you next year