Harmony & Health

IN THE BLEAK MIDWINTER (cont)

People frequently come into my shop and ask for advice or take pictures of products then go away and buy them online. I know this happens in other independent stores too. It’s very disheartening and astoundingly rude. Which brings us back to the old chestnut of ‘convenience’, the trap that we are all becoming ensnared in without realising the true cost. Using the notion that touching cash might make you ill we are stepping into uncertain times as by this time next year we may well see the roll out of a digital currency in this country and across the world. I’ll discuss the implications for the loss of cash another day. Our high street is dying. It is increasingly difficult to buy basics in Garstang without going to a supermarket. There is a huge retail space on what was once our car park. The space has rental costs that will mean it will be a small miracle if any independent store can setup successfully there. As Amazon has seen a whopping 27% increase in profits every quarter in the last two years it is no coincidence that the high street has seen a similar drop in sales. I implore you all to become more conscious of the shopping choices you make because the very health of our community depends upon what you choose. Perhaps it is time for the local population to step up and take back our destiny? My vision would include setting up a local community bank, please have a look at www. valhallanetwork.io for a group who can help this become reality. And would it not be great if we retook our local council and steered it away from bickering politics and inertia and into something dynamic and imaginative that can bring vim and vigour back to our town? Please

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

BLINDS

Beautiful Blinds Made to Your Requirements VENETIAN - VERTICAL - ROLLER - PLEATED - VELUX - MIRAGE - ROMAN - CURTAIN

100’s of British-made fabrics to choose from. Blinds repaired • Replacement Louvres Free Measuring & Fitting

J.R & D Sillis will be open as normal and will continue to provide the high level of service and quality products that Jack has produced over the last 50 years. Jeff, the new owner of the business, has over 10 years’ experience within the blinds industry. His experienced team are always happy to advise and quote for your blinds free of charge and without obligation

Est 1972

Est 1972