Getting in a right tizz, or fizz, over items of sentimentality

The recent hooha over Irn-Bru being stockpiled by fans desperate to safeguard their favourite drink before a reduced-sugar version comes out has left me reviewing the items I could not live without.

When it comes to a legacy to be kept for future generations, my decluttering policies (known by family members as my “manic tendency to throw out anything we may need and love”) means there is little to be left for posterity.

The few pieces of non-valuable but sentimentally important jewellery I own have already been bagsied by my 20-year-old niece.

At Christmas, she said: “Auntie Lucy, you know when you die?” I replied warily “Yes?” “Can I have your jewellery?

Not all of it, but …” She went on to itemise the pieces of tat she had her eyes on.

At which point, I had to remind her that I had a daughter who may have a legitimate claim on my jewellery.

“In fact, she’s sitting next to you. You might want to have a discussion with her before prising any sparkly items from my cold dead body.”

The Student then piped up: “No, you’re all right, it’s not really my style. No offence.”

So I guess that’s sorted. None taken.

As for items from childhood, a tumble-dryer fire in my parents’ garage many years ago means that official documents, such as exam certificates, relating to me and my siblings went up in smoke.

Anything I keep for myself – old newspaper cuttings, manual typewriters, books with lovely inscriptions – is of absolutely no interest or use to anyone else.

Which has left me slightly panicky.

I may just stock up on Irn-Bru, just so I can rest assured I will have something of value to pass on to future generations.