Second post of the day - this one deliberate.

Just a few random observations from a trip into the historic town of York:-

1. There's a sharp contrast between the way the Spanish and the British treat their medieval glories. As a generalisation, in Spain they're quite separate from both the 'new' residential quarters and from the centres of trade and commerce. In Britain - as exemplified by Chester and York - everything is rather more mixed up. And, as a result, the god of consumerism disfigures a great deal of Britain's heritage. I'm sure there are arguments for both approaches but, on balance, I go with the Spanish option. Tempting fate, I seem to recall reading that the main reason the old quarters of Spanish cities are now their rejuvenated gems is because when times here were not so good they were left to run down, while any new building was done elsewhere. When things got better and money was available to improve the old quarters, they were still largely unspoilt and so could be restored to their original and undiluted glory. Anyone got a better theory?

2. Plastic. Too much of it, yes? So why does the pharmacist give me a tube of cream that's already in a carton in a plastic bag? And why does the newsagent do likewise with a bloody newspaper? Why on earth would I want a newspaper inside a plastic bag?

3. How long before the ATM machines of BBVA and others offer me the chance not only to withdraw money or get a statement but also to to 'Make a charitable donation'? Is this to make the banks seem more caring or am I just a cynic?

4. On the same note, is it now compulsory in the UK to include a statement on your menu or on your products that the provider is only involved in 'fair trade'? If not, how long before it effectively will be?