A flashback to 2006. You can just see the corner of the tropical-looking building that served as the sales office for the estate.

Recently, in its place a wall has been built. A few trees have been planted, and a circle of grass laid.

I remember when our children were little we used to go to St Edmunds Church, and park in the Penlon grounds. Penlon have since moved to the nearby Science Park.

There is a ‘To Let’ sign in one of the upstairs flats. The downstairs windows were put in late last week and coloured vinyl prints added. There are cold storage shelves being put inside the shop. We are probably looking at a February opening date now.

The pavement, and a cobbled area in front look finished. There used to be parking bays opposite the Co-op, which were taken away while it was built.

We learnt earlier in the month that there are plans for the Post-Office to move in with the Co-op.

Abingdon does not have an antique shop – I know of – but it does have the Sue Ryder Charity Shop. The current manageress has established a line in furniture. This chair, one from a set of four, the others are stored elsewhere, is a Louis XV. There was a rather interesting rocking chair next to it this morning but when I returned to take a second look it was gone.

Where Dawsons used to be, a new discount shop has opened up today. Most things are priced at £1, with a few things a bit more. They say they will be here after Christmas.

The big question is will Woolworths. Here are the Abbey Brass playing carols outside: “Oh Come all ye faithful!”.