ONE LAST THING

And so, as we say farewell to one Bank Holiday, we set our sights on the next one and the bumper four-day bunting-fest that will mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

A huge pageant is planned combining arts, theatre, circus and carnival. There is a Platinum Party at the Palace being broadcast across the UK and the globe as well as a major military demonstration.

Beacons will be lit, services of thanksgiving held, a mass singalong of God Save the Queen scheduled.

In our street we’ll be breaking out the trestle tables and sausage rolls as we raise a glass to the Queen.

But I wonder what Her Majesty herself makes of it all? She’s 96 after all and this isn’t the first Jubilee she’s had to endure. I mean, enjoy.

Isn’t she sick to death of Cliff Richard? Stiff-necked at another fly-past? Bored to tears with flagwaving children?

Now we hear it’s not certain whether she will make it on to the balcony at Buck House to greet the crowds.

Too frail? Perhaps. Or maybe she just wants to sit in peace with a brew, a chocolate Hobnob and Bargain Hunt.