Festive Banners Raised Under the Cover of Darkness

By John Freer

Call it commonsense or maybe just people overcoming the grinch-like role, and instead just entering into the Christmas spirit.

We are referring to Pollen Street, Thames, where the Christmas banners have appeared. There has been plenty of discussion on whether or not the banners would be in place for the coming festive season – many factors contributing to the uncertainty.

Firstly, local council staff advised the street poles were not fit for purpose, and flags could not be attached until they were replaced – which is in the long term plan.

Then there was the question of who would pay for the flags, the Thames Community Board discussed this only to find the flags had been purchased before approval was given. So the Board approved just purchasing flags for a flag flying event.

According to local social media reports, almost under the cover of darkness and by utilising the stealth of Oliver Twist racing through a graveyard ahead of arriving at dinner time to utter: “Please sir, I want some more,” the festive banners appeared.

We can now – draw – a conclusion, actually using Charles Dickens – “I will honor Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year.” Just for Thames.