Stop moaning. Let floral displays lift your spirits

Published: 13 August, 2010

• WHAT a lot of moaning minnies decorate your letters columns. If it isn’t the political sniping, it is complaints... never praise.

Well, I like the flowers in the streets and think that they are well worth the 50p or so from my rates. What a joy to wake up one early July morning and, as if by magic, see a hanging basket outside my bedroom window.

And, as I do my daily walk along the Angel pavements, it lifts my spirits and puts a spring in my step to see the long line of blooms down the central reservation.

The brilliant colours may clash with the buses, but who cares? Scarlet and white would be a bit dull. The boxes help keep a check on the ubiquitous chaining of bikes to the barriers, which is so ugly. They prevent youths from leaping over the barriers and into the traffic.

The new pavement is beautiful. The old slabs were broken, uneven and some were moveable under foot. I often tripped, and anyone damaging themselves on uneven paving stones can sue the council – that is, us. Long may the paving stones remain clean, and gum and coffee-stain free. 

And wouldn’t it be nice to see the gentleman with the chessboard back under the trees? Better than ugly advertising boards any day.

To those who complain that the council is refurbishing their flats, I would point out that most homeowners would be delighted to have new, subsidised kitchens and bathrooms. Be thankful, even if you have to pay a contribution. The rest of us make up the difference. Let’s be positive in these difficult times – we might all feel better.

YVONNE TURNER
Upper Street, N1