And another thing!!!

I know I sometimes sound like a grumpy old whinger, but there are so many infuriating things that contribute to the poor state of our planet.

One is retailers' blithe disrespect for energy. I often pass through Banbury at night, and it shocks me to see how many stores keep their lights on out of hours. I understand this is a "security" measure - although the cynic in me thinks it's more likely to be a way of enticing passing pedestrians to gawp in at their wares.

It' doesn't bear thinking about how much electricy this daft tradition expends every night. And surely, if it was a security thing, wouldn't it be better if shops were in darkness: Passers-by would notice the sweeping flash of a burglar's torch more than a seemingly unsuspicious character brazenly walking around an illuminated shop floor.

Three cheers for Marks & Spencer, which has seen the light - or rather switched it off. All its stores are in darkness, except for windows, which are lit with a faint blue glow.