Like faithful friends...

..the phrases flow:

'You do such good work'

'I'll just get rid of my pennines'

'I only ever give to you lot'

The venue may change, the people may differ, but it seems that the response to the opportunity to financially support the work of The Salvation Army is incredibly consistent.

Yesterday as I stood outside a local Tesco it was the usual mix of people -some keen to see us, others uncomfortably shuffling by, some happy to stand and chat, while others chose the 'drop-and-run' technique. I was called 'sweetie' (which was nice!), was asked directions 6 times, worried a number of drivers who had parked illegally and I saw a bicycle that doesn't need brakes to stop! All in all it was an intriguing couple of hours.

I can't say I'm convinced yet by supermarket collecting, while people did give it did seem to be meagre. Personally speaking I can't remember the last time I had cash in a supermarket, while the elderly that seemed to bus in for the 'messages' (as we Scots say!) would perhaps be on a tight budget. It did seem that people were more inclined to give their money to Mr Tesco rather than one of Booth's Boys. Mind you with 1 in 8 pounds spent in the UK going to Tesco maybe we should be getting into retail?!

Still, I haven't heard any figures yet and I think we did better than the two energy salesmen who were trying to flog their wares! They should try wearing caps!