The Red Cross shop in West St Helen Street has been in Abingdon for over 15 years, and I cannot remember it looking as good or as well stocked as recent months. And the Brazilian manageress is really friendly.

But compare it to other charity shops in town and look at the cards and there is one big difference. The Red Cross shop has not got any Christmas Cards.

A little way away the Oxfordshire Headquarters of the Red Cross can be found in Colwell Drive next to Mac Donalds in Abingdon. There are a fleet of ambulances round the back, and inside are offices and storage for all sorts of wheelchairs and walking frames and things to to be used for loans. The Red Cross does not only look after people in war torn countries but does a lot near at home. This building will be staying…

…but the shop has not been making enough money and will be closing on about December 9th. This window picture was taken a few weeks back. The word ‘Unconditional…’ and a cuddly toy behind saying ‘I Love You.’

It is not the only shop to be closing as this is a strategic decision coming from the National HQ (our regional HQ is not to blame). Possibly a wise financial decision looked at from seventy miles up there, but not from down here.